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Oklahoma Senate
Southern Oklahoma legislators assume leadership positions
OKLAHOMA CITY – Four southern Oklahoma legislators have been named to key leadership positions in the 54th Oklahoma Legislature. State Senator Frank Simpson was officially named chairman of the Senate Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, and Rep. Pat Ownbey assumed chairmanship of the House Human Services Committee. Rep. Tommy Hardin will be serving as Vice Chairman of the House Veterans and Military Affairs Committee while Rep. Charles McCall was named Vice Chairman of the House Appropriation and Budget Committee for Revenue and Taxation.
“We have a strong team in place to represent the interests of southern Oklahoma. It’s an honor for me to be able to work with quality people like Pat, Tommy, and Charles. Together the four of us can make a difference for the great people of southern Oklahoma.”
The leadership positions were officially voted on Tuesday during the legislature’s constitutionally-mandated Organizational Day, which occurs during odd numbered years.
“It’s an honor for me to assume chairmanship of a committee that works to protect the most vulnerable among us. And to be able to do that while working with my fellow southern Oklahoma legislators makes it doubly rewarding. These are three quality men who are working hard for their constituents. Together the four of us make a great team,” said Ownbey, R-Ardmore.
During this official first day of the session, each Chamber elects their leaders, including the Senate President Pro Tempore and the House Speaker. They also adopt the rules under which their Chamber will operate for the next two sessions, approve committee assignments and certify election results.
“I look forward to the upcoming session and working with this great group to represent southern Oklahoma,” said Hardin, R-Madill. “With Senator Simpson being Chairman of the Veterans Committee in the Senate and me serving as the Vice-Chairman in the House, I expect our veterans will be very well represented.”
Once the two legislative bodies concluded their official business, they met in a joint session to certify the county and congressional elections and approve the rules for the 54th legislature.
“As a freshman, it is a tremendous honor to have been chosen for this vice chairmanship. I’m humbled by the faith and trust instilled in me by House Speaker Shannon and my colleagues,” said McCall, R-Atoka. “This committee makes decisions that ultimately affect all Oklahomans, and I will work hard to ensure that the best interests of the citizens of southern Oklahoma are protected. I’m looking forward to working with Senator Simpson and Representatives Ownbey and Hardin. Together we can continue to do great things for our area and all Oklahomans.”
