State Senator Jerry Alvord
I recently had the pleasure of attending a legislative reception at the Oklahoma State University Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center. This event provided valuable insights into the Made in Oklahoma Coalition and their significant impact on our state’s economy, particularly through the food processing sector.
The Made in Oklahoma Coalition is a powerhouse in our state, contributing substantially to economic growth and job creation. They estimate their impact to include over 103,000 jobs and are accountable for over $800 million in payroll. These numbers highlight the vital role that locally produced goods play in supporting our communities and sustaining our economy.
The Made in Oklahoma Coalition is a testament to the innovation and quality of products that come from our state. With great food items and high-quality goods, these businesses showcase the best of what Oklahoma has to offer. By supporting local industries, we not only boost our economy but also celebrate the hard work and dedication of our fellow Oklahomans.
In other news, the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) recently released its annual report, shedding light on the progress made in regulating the medical marijuana industry. These updates are crucial as we work to ensure the safety and accountability of this growing sector.
The report revealed significant strides in bringing certain issues under control. One notable change is the reduction of licensed grow facilities from approximately 11,000 to around 3,500. Additionally, there has been a decrease of almost 30,000 issued licenses for the Fiscal Year 2023. These adjustments are welcome as OMMA takes steps to regulate an industry that was previously running rampant in Oklahoma.
I appreciate the progress made by the OMMA in an effort to curb the current issues with the medical marijuana industry in Oklahoma. I want to be clear this isn’t an attack on the industry, but rather a correction in how the industry needs to operate in our great state.
I’m also pleased to share that my bill, Senate Bill 1959, has passed through the House and now goes to the governor for his signature. SB 1959 provides that any commercial entity that knowingly and intentionally publishes or distributes obscene material, or material that depicts or promotes child pornography or child sexual exploitation, on the Internet may be held liable to an individual for nominal damages, actual damages, court costs, and reasonable attorney fees. It also ensures these distributors must provide internet service subscribers and cellular service subscribers an opportunity to request that access to this material be denied. This legislation is a great step on the path to ensuring the safety of our children.
To contact me at the Capitol, please write to Senator Jerry Alvord, State Capitol, 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd. Room 432, Oklahoma City, OK, 73105, email me at [email protected] or call (405) 521-5607.
