Interim Study Explores Ways to Boost Oklahoma’s Appeal to Employers

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, and House Majority Leader Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa, on Tuesday held an interim study to explore how Oklahoma can better retain existing companies while also attracting new businesses to the state.

The lawmakers invited business leaders, higher education officials, mental health experts, local service providers and Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols to give their perspectives on what’s preventing Oklahoma from attracting more businesses.

Sen. Rader said the study was especially important given that several prominent private-sector employers recently decided to move their headquarters out of state.

“Oklahoma is at an inflection point as we decide what we want this state to look like in the decades ahead,” Rader said. “We’ve proven that our low cost of living and welcoming environment can be a draw for employers and their employees. Now it’s time to build on those strengths to make Oklahoma a top destination for businesses.”

Rep. Lawson said the study spurred a productive discussion about how Oklahoma can keep graduates from leaving the state while also attracting more entrepreneurs and highly skilled workers.

"Oklahoma has a tremendous opportunity to build an economy that creates good-paying jobs for our citizens, but we have to be intentional about addressing the challenges that can hold us back," Lawson said. "That means creating an environment where businesses want to grow and talented people want to put down roots. We need to make sure Oklahoma is not just a place people are proud to call home, but a place where they can start a family and build a successful future."

Presenters offered a wide range of recommendations throughout the study. Many emphasized how strong public schools and infrastructure investments could affect a state’s overall competitiveness. Others noted the importance of developing a robust workforce prepared for jobs in high-demand fields.

Several presenters also highlighted challenges specifically in Tulsa and Oklahoma City. They pointed to the need for enhanced public safety, more affordable homes and apartments, expanded mental health services and additional resources to get individuals off the streets and into secure housing.

Ultimately, many presenters agreed that quality-of-life factors play a major role in attracting and retaining businesses.

Participants included State Chamber of Oklahoma President and CEO Chad Warmington; University of Tulsa President Stacy Leeds; Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education Chancellor Sean Burrage and Williams Companies President and CEO Chad Zamarin.