By Sen. GEORGE BURNS
Entering the New Year, I’m eager for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. As we step into 2024, I carry with me the hope that this legislative year will be even more fruitful and impactful than its predecessor. Reflecting on 2023, I have a very deep appreciation for how we as Oklahomans have pulled together and supported one another through another year. It is crucial that we learn from the past to build a more vibrant future for generations to come and as a state I feel like we are well on our way to doing that.
As we step into the 2024 legislative session, I am looking forward to building that future, together with each of you. We have come through some challenging times in recent years, just as our forefathers did before us. In true Oklahoma style, we have come through these times together. Oklahoma’s ingenuity, resourcefulness, perseverance, and character are what keep us going, and what makes us Oklahoma strong. We hold one another up and find solutions to impossible situations because together we can do great things.
In preparation for the challenges ahead, I am actively focusing on this sense of togetherness and organizing my legislative agenda accordingly. This session, my focus is on building a more sustainable future through legislative changes that will benefit Oklahomans for generations to come. I am introducing legislation focused on energy efficiency and grid reliability, more funding opportunities for rural hospitals, and creating more affordable access for Oklahomans to enjoy the beautiful state parks and resources we have here at home while also supporting the tourism industry and bringing more dollars back home to your small businesses to help build and support local economies.
The coming year will also see some changes in our budgeting process across the state. I am hopeful that the increased transparency will benefit our citizens. These new changes will provide more clarity surrounding the allocation of funds across state agencies, ensuring responsible fiscal management. This process is a significant undertaking, but I am confident that the increase in transparency and accountability will be beneficial for Oklahoma.
I invite you, my constituents, to actively participate in this legislative journey. Your insights and aspirations are invaluable in shaping policies that align with the needs of our community. I am optimistic that, with your input, we can overcome challenges and make 2024 a year of significant progress for our state – together we can do great things! Wishing you all a Happy New Year filled with peace and prosperity.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you at our state Capitol. If you have any questions about legislation, or need assistance with an issue, please contact me by email at George.Burns@oksenate.gov or by phone at 405-521-5614.
(Editor’s note: George Burns is the Oklahoma state senator for the southern part of LeFlore County.)
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