OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate has passed Senate Resolution 3, authored by Senator John Haste, to formally recognize the invaluable contributions of Oklahoma’s more than 33,000 state employees.

State employees serve in a wide range of roles, ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of Oklahoma residents. Their work is essential to maintaining the daily operations of state government, often requiring dedication, integrity, and personal sacrifice.

“Our state employees are the backbone of Oklahoma’s government,” said Senator Haste, R-District 36. “They work tirelessly to support our citizens, many of them in demanding and critical roles that impact public safety, health, education, and infrastructure. This resolution serves as a testament to their dedication and the vital role they play in making our state stronger.”

As part of SR3, the Senate also honored the memory of state employees who lost their lives in service to Oklahoma, including Jaden Jackson, an Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) Heavy Equipment Operator who was tragically killed while working on State Highway 82 near Talihina on December 30, 2024.

Jackson and his coworkers had just finished patching potholes when a vehicle entered the work zone and struck him. He was killed on the scene while serving the citizens of Oklahoma. Jackson leaves behind his wife, Faith, who is expecting their second child, and their 2 ½-year-old daughter, Creeklynn.

“His tragic passing is a solemn reminder of the risks many of our state employees face every day in service to Oklahoma," Haste said of Jackson, who was the 62nd ODOT employee to lose his life while working along Oklahoma highways. "We honor his life and the impact he made on those around him.”

“Oklahoma is better because of the commitment of our state workforce,” Haste added. “It’s important that we take the time to acknowledge and appreciate their hard work and service.”

The resolution was approved March 4, 2025 in the Oklahoma Senate.

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For more information, contact: Sen. John Haste at (405) 521-5602 or John.Haste@oksenate.gov