Senate leaders comment on passing of former Sen. Sam Helton

The Republican and Democratic leaders of the Oklahoma State Senate commented on the passing of former Sen. Sam Helton, D-Lawton:

“As a member of the Oklahoma State Senate, Sam Helton was a strong voice and advocate for Oklahoma’s veterans and military personnel. He worked on policies and reforms that reflected our state’s great admiration and respect for our veterans. He was a great senator for Lawton and southwest Oklahoma and he’ll be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Senator Helton’s family and friends during this difficult time.” – Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tem Brian Bingman, R-Sapulpa.

“Senator Helton was a dedicated public servant, first with the Lawton Police Department and then as a member of the State Senate. We’re grateful for his service and extend our deepest sympathies to his family for their loss.” – Senate Minority Leader John Sparks, D-Norman.

Helton was first elected to the Senate in 1992 and served until 2004, when term limits prevented him from seeking re-election. He was the chairman of the Committee on Energy, Environment and Communications, and served as chairman of the Veterans, Military Affairs and Public Safety Committee. Prior to serving in the Oklahoma State Senate, he was an officer with the Lawton Police Department for 10 years.