Thompson Roger 1By Sen. Roger Thompson
As we all know, it’s easy to look for problems and complain about what’s wrong, especially when it comes to state government.  We often hear complaints about government becoming too big and far-reaching, which makes it that much harder to focus on making sure the basic needs and services for citizens are addressed.   Faced with constant criticism, it’s often more difficult to seek solutions and remain positive about a challenging situation, and it’s no different when it comes to state government.
One of the most important responsibilities our state government has is to effectively keep track of the needs of Oklahomans while not expanding state government.  It’s a precarious balance to maintain, but there are many great things happening in the state and in our local district with this goal in mind.
To start, I have requested an interim legislative study this fall with my colleague, Sen. Kay Floyd, to focus on the Administrative Procedures Act and the related rule-making process.  Our effort will focus on finding ways to lower or even eliminate high administrative fees, while providing stronger state government without expanding its function even further.
I’ve also been working with the Department of Transportation. I am traveling this week with Darrin Saliba, Division Engineer, to personally examine the various road projects currently in the works – some proposed and some already underway – to ensure taxpayer dollars are being used efficiently and effectively to address our state’s needs in transportation.  It’s the state’s responsibility to keep a watchful eye on how the funds are being appropriated and awarded to ensure it is being a good steward of the taxpayers’ money.
I was also fortunate to spend a day last week touring our local communities with Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce Deby Snodgrass.  We made several stops in Okemah, Checotah and Eufaula to meet with area business owners and others who were affected by recent flooding in the area and we discussed several ways to positively impact the recovery effort.    Traveling with Secretary Snodgrass was Martin Roberts, Specialist in Incentives with the Department of Commerce.  Both Secretary Snodgrass and Roberts have made follow up calls with city and business leaders following their visit to the area.  We are dedicated to economic development and economic growth in our area.
Our cities are the backbone to a strong economy, and I know our communities are resilient.  As we move forward to find new ways to meet challenging situations, it’s my hope we can keep our focus on solutions that help Oklahomans without needlessly expanding state government any further.
As always, please feel free to contact me at the state Capitol by calling (405) 521-5588 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..