We’ve officially wrapped up the first month of the legislative session. The past week was focused heavily on committee work as we reached our first deadline of the year. With the next deadline in mid-March, we still have plenty of work ahead as we’ll spend the next two weeks considering bills on the Senate floor. Those that pass will be sent across the rotunda to start the process over as they’re considered by House Committees.
One of my pieces of legislation, Senate Bill 1578, was unanimously approved by the Education Committee this week. This bill allows school nurses to utilize mobile apps or other electronic software to connect to students’ glucose monitors. This will allow the nurses to help students with their diabetes management, while also creating safer conditions for the student as a nurse or dedicated staff member can intervene promptly when medical attention is needed. Some schools have not taken part in students’diabetes management because of liability reasons, but this bill also adds a layer of protection for the schools by clarifying that they are not responsible for glucose monitoring after school hours or outside of school events. I look forward to presenting this measure before the full Senate and sharing how we can promote healthier outcomes for Oklahoma students under its provisions.
This week presented yet another opportunity to recognize outstanding groups and individuals from all corners of the state. We welcomed the state officer teams from the eight CareerTech student organizations. I had the opportunity to meet with Jaden Taylor, an FCCLA state officer from Latta High School. She currently serves as the VP of Community Service and is truly an incredible young lady and leader. I appreciate her visiting and wish her the best of luck in her current and future endeavors.
On Wednesday, we heard from Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. on Cherokee Nation Legislative Day. His remarks on partnerships between the state and our tribal nations are something I wholeheartedly agree with, as every Oklahoman benefits when we work together towards positive outcomes. I had the opportunity to sit down with the chiefs and governors of three of our state’s largest tribal nations to discuss how we can create a prosperous future for our state by investing in education, infrastructure, tourism, and other areas of interest. I look forward to continuing these discussions with these leaders, in addition to the dozens of other tribal nations across the state.
As always, please contact my office if I can be of assistance to you. You can reach us by calling (405) 521-5541 or emailing Greg. [email protected].
