“The people of Oklahoma are resilient,” said Governor Fallin. “The grief we are experiencing right now is indescribable. But we have seen tragedy before, and we have recovered and emerged as stronger people and a stronger state.

“This Sunday, I invite the families of those affected by these terrible tragedies, the people of Moore and Shawnee, the state of Oklahoma and all of those who have sent us their thoughts and prayers to attend this memorial service. Together, we can honor those we have lost, pray for those they left behind, and begin to heal together.”

First Baptist Church is located on ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11874 Tue, 21 May 2013 15:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin, in coordination with the United Way of Central Oklahoma, has established the OK Strong Disaster Relief Fund to assist with the long-term medical, emotional and educational needs of victims of the May 20 tornado in Moore and the May 19 tornado near Shawnee.

“We are appreciative and grateful for the outpouring of support for our state in the wake this week’s devastating tornadoes,” Fallin said.  “The generosity of Oklahomans, Americans and people across the world is very encouraging and will help meet many of the short-term needs of victims.  However, experience tells us there also will be long-term consequences to the challenges victims are facing.  We hope the OK Strong Disaster Relief Fund can help meet those long-term needs.  I very much appreciate the United Way of Central Oklahoma for their generosity and help in creating this fund.”

Donations for the long-term ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11852 Tue, 21 May 2013 08:15 -0500 Oklahoma City -- Gov. Mary Fallin announced today that the White House has approved the state's request for disaster assistance for five Oklahoma counties hit hard by this week’s deadly tornadoes.

The disaster assistance benefits individuals and business owners impacted by the severe storms that occurred May 18 and continuing in Cleveland, Lincoln, McClain, Oklahoma and Pottawatomie counties. Gov. Fallin noted with additional damage assessments other counties could be added to the declaration.

The announcement comes in the wake of three days of tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding, which killed more than 50 people and injured more than 120.

“We very much appreciate the support and quick action of President Obama in approving Oklahoma's request for federal disaster assistance in the wake of today's devastating storms," Governor Fallin said.

To apply for disaster assistance individuals ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11832 Sun, 19 May 2013 22:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today declared a State of Emergency for 16 Oklahoma counties due to tornadoes, severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding that began Saturday.

The counties included in the declaration are: Caddo, Cleveland, Comanche, Creek, Garfield, Grant, Greer, Kiowa, Lincoln, Logan, McClain, Okfuskee, Oklahoma, Pawnee, Payne and Pottawatomie.

The declaration can be amended to add additional counties if conditions warrant.

Since Saturday, these Oklahoma counties have experienced tornadoes, straight-line winds, damaging hail and flooding.  Initial reports show damage in numerous communities including Bethel Acres, Carney, Edmond, Little Axe, Norman, Shawnee and Wellston. Further damage assessments are ongoing.

“Our hearts and prayers are with those Oklahomans who have been affected by today's severe weather," Fallin said.  "The state of emergency declaration will allow]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11796 Thu, 16 May 2013 09:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the third annual Governor’s Energy Conference will be Oct. 9 at the Tulsa Convention Center.  The conference annually brings together top policy makers, energy industry executives and other stakeholders from all across the energy industry.  This year, the Governor’s Energy Conference will focus on the issues of workforce development and research in the energy industry.

The conference is presented by Governor Fallin and the University of Tulsa Collins College of Business in partnership with the Office of the Oklahoma Secretary of Energy, the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and the Tulsa Regional Chamber.

“The productivity and technical expertise of Oklahoma’s energy industry is leading our nation towards energy independence and spurring tremendous economic growth in our state and across the nation,” Fallin said.  “At the Governor’s Energy]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11795 Thu, 16 May 2013 08:45 -0500 By Michael McNutt, NewsOK

Gov. Mary Fallin did more than tell state workers and others Wednesday to develop healthy habits. She led them on a walk around the state Capitol complex.

“We can make a difference in our personal health,” Fallin, wearing an Oklahoma City Thunder T-shirt, told the crowd. “We can make a difference in the state's health.”

Oklahoma made baby steps last year in improving its health rankings by the United Health Foundation: Oklahoma moved up to 43 from 46. Its rankings showed 31.2 percent adults in Oklahoma are physically inactive compared with 26.2 percent nationally; 26.1 percent of Oklahomans smoke]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11772 Mon, 13 May 2013 15:30 -0500 Bill Also Includes Funding for State Capitol Repairs

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law a landmark income tax reduction bill.  House Bill 2032 would cut the top income tax rate from 5.25 percent to 5.0 percent on January 1, 2015. It would cut the rate further, to 4.85 percent, in 2016. Once fully realized, the tax cut would pump $237 million into the private sector.

Fallin said the income tax cut was an important tool for job creation and economic development.

“One of the first questions I get when I am talking to business owners throughout the country is, ‘if I come to Oklahoma, are you going to raise my taxes?’” Fallin said. “Passing a significant and responsible tax cut will help us to recruit these businesses and retain the ones we already have. Our tax cut will ultimately lead to more job opportunities for all Oklahomans.”

Fallin also]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11771 Fri, 10 May 2013 14:15 -0500 Bills to Eliminate and Consolidate State Boards and Commissions Signed into Law  

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law two measures that will eliminate or consolidate 55 boards and commissions within state government.  The measures add to previous government “right-sizing” bills backed by the governor. Over 75 boards and commissions have been eliminated or consolidated in this session alone.

HB 1455, by Rep. Jason Murphey and Sen. Greg Treat, eliminates 27 boards and commissions that are defunct, duplicative, or are no longer necessary to include in state statutes. By eliminating travel reimbursements and staff work time on these boards, HB 1455 will save more than $50,000 annually.

HB 1467, by Murphey and Sen. A.J. Griffin, consolidates 28 boards and commissions into seven new boards that will be overseen by]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11769 Fri, 10 May 2013 13:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – In celebration of Employee Health and Wellness Month, Governor Mary Fallin will lace up her walking shoes again this year to lead the second annual Governor’s Walk for Wellness at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15.  Cabinet secretaries, state agency leaders, state employees and private businesses will join her in the walk around the Capitol complex.The event serves to raise awareness for worksite wellness programs.

Oklahoma ranks 43rd in the nation in health outcomes, according to the United Health Foundation’s America’s Health Rankings report. Worksite wellness programs can help improve the state’s ranking by encouraging employees to eat better, move more and be tobacco free. Worksite wellness programs also benefit employers by reducing healthcare costs and absenteeism, increasing worker productivity and attracting new employees to the business.

“Although our state has made gains in improving our]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11752 Tue, 07 May 2013 14:45 -0500 Bill Will Help Address Needs at Capitol, Maintain other State Assets

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law House Bill 1910, a bill that creates a long-term plan to maintain state assets.  The bill, by House Speaker T.W. Shannon and Senate President Pro Tem Brian Bingman, forms the Long-Range Capital Planning Commission. The commission will first address the repair of the state Capitol, and later develop an eight-year plan to address other infrastructure, repair and maintenance issues.  The commission also will provide recommendations on reallocation, reuse or liquidation of state properties.

“It’s important we maintain and improve state assets, rather than watching them deteriorate,” Fallin said.  “House Bill 1910 puts us on a path to ensure state infrastructure and buildings like the Oklahoma Capitol are well-maintained and cared for.  My thanks go out to the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11750 Mon, 06 May 2013 16:00 -0500 By Governor Mary Fallin

With a budget deal reached and a flurry of important legislation ready to be signed into law, it is clear that the 2013 legislative session will be a constructive, even historic, time for lawmakers.

On three major fronts, legislative leaders and I have made substantial progress on policies that will bring more good-paying, high-quality jobs to Oklahoma:  reducing the state’s income tax, overhauling the workers’ compensation system and addressing the state’s long-term infrastructure needs. 

Our income tax reduction plan lowers the state’s top tax rate by 0.25 percent, to 5 percent, starting in 2015, and lowers that rate even further, to 4.85 percent, the following year.   Once fully realized, our tax cut will pump more than $200 million a year back into the private sector. It is a responsible, meaningful tax cut that will let Oklahoma families keep more of their hard-earned money]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11749 Mon, 06 May 2013 15:15 -0500 Bill Reduces Costs to Business, Ensures Injured Workers Treated Fairly

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law Senate Bill 1062, a bill that reforms the workers’ compensation system in Oklahoma.  The bill, by Senate President Pro Tem Brian Bingman and House Speaker T.W. Shannon, seeks to reduce costs for businesses. It moves the state from a court-based workers’ compensation system to an administrative system, allowing for more timely processing of claims and reducing the adversarial nature of the process for both workers and employers. 

“For decades, Oklahoma has had one of the most expensive and inefficient workers’ compensation systems in the country, a constant obstacle for business owners looking to expand operations or create more jobs,” Fallin said.  “Senate Bill 1062 completely overhauls our flawed workers’ comp system, dramatically reducing the ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11748 Mon, 06 May 2013 09:30 -0500 Making her own way: Oklahoma’s first female governor has a history of taking unexpected path

By M. Scott Carter, Journal Record Capitol bureau reporter

OKLAHOMA CITY – Twice, Mary Fallin has made history. Twice, she changed the world of Oklahoma politics.

In 1994 Fallin, a Republican state representative from Oklahoma City, defied the odds and the GOP establishment and was elected as Oklahoma’s first female lieutenant governor. Fallin had served two terms as a state representative before seeking the lieutenant governor’s office.

Although she hadn’t initially set her sights on a political career, politics seemed to find her.

“I didn’t grow up as a child thinking I’d go into politics,” she said. “It never crossed my mind.”

The daughter of two Democrats who both worked for the state, Fallin grew up ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11747 Mon, 06 May 2013 08:45 -0500 Cutting the personal income tax rate to 5 percent effective in 2015 sends a signal that Oklahoma is serious about tax relief for residents, Gov. Mary Fallin said. The governor plans to sign the income tax-cut measure this week.

Cutting the state's top personal income tax rate, a move contained in legislation set to be signed into law this month, sends a strong message to businesses that Oklahoma is serious about providing tax relief for residents and businesses, Gov. Mary Fallin says.

“Lowering our taxes in Oklahoma will absolutely get the attention of businesses, not only here in our state, but businesses across our nation,” she said. “It helps us have a competitive advantage.

“It sends a very strong signal that we're not going to be raising taxes upon our businesses or upon our citizens, which makes us more attractive to do business and more attractive as a ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11742 Thu, 02 May 2013 13:45 -0500 Budget Holds the Line on Spending for Most Agencies, Provides Targeted Increases to Education, Health and Other Areas

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin, House Speaker T.W. Shannon, Senate Pro Tem Brian Bingman and appropriations chairmen in the state Legislature today reached an agreement on a proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2014. The agreement outlines a fiscally conservative blueprint for state government, holding the line on spending for most agencies while providing targeted increases in resources for education, health, child welfare and infrastructure.

Click here to view a spreadsheet outlining details of the $7.2 billion budget. Click here to view a fact sheet about the budget.  Examples ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11718 Fri, 26 Apr 2013 13:45 -0500 American Legislative Exchange Council Spring Meeting brings together hundreds of state legislators in Oklahoma City May 2-3

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin will speak to hundreds of state legislators from across the country on May 3 at the American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) Spring Task Force Summit. The two day summit will be held this year at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City.

Fallin, who was named a “Legislator of the Year” by ALEC while serving as a state representative, will discuss this year’s legislative session and highlight the success of pro-growth policies in Oklahoma.

“In Oklahoma, we are working to reduce taxes, limit the size and scope of government, and provide a reasonable regulatory environment for businesses to operate,” Fallin said. “By focusing on these policies, Oklahoma lawmakers have helped contribute to remarkable]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11658 Tue, 23 Apr 2013 16:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin, Senate Pro Tem Brian Bingman and House Speaker T.W. Shannon today announced agreement and impending action on key legislative items, including income tax cuts, workers’ compensation reform and a plan to address long-term infrastructure needs. Three bills were identified as having the support of both the governor and majorities in the House and Senate.

House Bill 2032 would cut the top income tax rate from 5.25 percent to 5.0 percent on January 1, 2015. It would cut the rate further, to 4.85 percent, on January 1, 2016. The second cut is contingent on total revenue growth in FY 2016 being equal to or greater than the FY 2016 fiscal impact of a 0.15 percent tax cut.  The bill also provides for a total of $120 million to fund repairs to the Oklahoma State Capitol.

Senate Bill 1062 reforms the workers’ compensation system in Oklahoma.  It reduces legal costs, medical costs, and excessive payouts]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11635 Fri, 19 Apr 2013 08:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement on the 18^th anniversary of bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

“On this day 18 years ago, our city was forever changed when 168 lives were taken from us in the bombing of the Oklahoma City federal building.  Today, we remember those who were lost, and offer support to the survivors and the families left behind.  We also honor the heroic efforts of the emergency responders, firefighters and law enforcement personnel who worked tirelessly to recover survivors.

“In the days after the bombing, our city came together in a display of strength, unity and resiliency that would later become known as the ‘Oklahoma standard.’ That same spirit has allowed our city to overcome this tragedy and emerge stronger than ever.

“Our hearts also are burdened today as we grieve for the victims of the bombing attacks in]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11615 Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:15 -0500 Report: ODVA needs repair, oversight

By M. Scott Carter, Journal Record Capitol bureau reporter

OKLAHOMA CITY – An audit of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs and its seven long-term care centers shows problems with inconsistent training and pervasive substandard wages and raises questions about the way investigations and inspections are performed at the centers, state Auditor and Inspector Gary Jones said Wednesday.

However, ODVA administrators and the nine-member War Veterans Commission have taken some steps to improve the agency, he said.

Done at the request of Republican Gov. Mary Fallin, the performance audit reviewed the operation of the ODVA and its veterans centers. Fallin requested the audit after a yearlong investigation by The Journal Record and OETA showed cases of abuse, rape, neglect and deaths at several of the centers.

In the audit, released Wednesday]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11601 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 15:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin issued the statement below in response to an audit conducted by State Auditor and Inspector Gary Jones. The audit was conducted at the request of Fallin. It reported numerous problems at the state’s long term care facilities for veterans.

“My thanks go out to our State Auditor and Inspector Gary Jones, whose hard work will help to guide lawmakers as they seek to improve the services at the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA). Clearly, as this report illustrates, improvements are necessary.

“The audit reveals an unacceptable lack of oversight and accountability at the ODVA, particularly at the state’s seven veterans centers. These shortcomings are particularly disturbing in light of multiple accusations of abuse and neglect aimed at agency staff, some of which may have resulted in the death of Oklahoma veterans.

“In light of the deep-rooted problems at the ODVA, I]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11599 Wed, 17 Apr 2013 09:15 -0500 The Oklahoman Editorial | Published: April 16, 2013

IF Obamacare were a product sold on the private market, its makers would already face class-action lawsuits based on the false and misleading claims used to sell it. Virtually every promise made about the law has already been broken.

In 2009, President Barack Obama famously declared that “no matter how we reform health care, we will keep this promise: If you like your doctor, you will be able to keep your doctor. Period. If you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health care plan. Period.”

But now we know the insurance plans offered through Obamacare's state exchanges will have much more limited provider networks than those offered elsewhere; doctor choices will be restricted. Also, a recent Deloitte Center for Health Solutions survey found that 62 percent of physicians believe it's “likely” that many doctors will retire earlier than ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11598 Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed four bills into law designed to improve school security and keep Oklahoma children safe. She was joined at a public bill signing by Lieutenant Governor Todd Lamb, who served as chairman of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security, other commissioners, and legislative leaders.

“The state of Oklahoma has a duty to do everything we can to keep our children safe,” Fallin said. “The bills signed into law today will ensure that schools are well prepared for emergencies of all kinds. They’ll also help to provide more training and better coordination between law enforcement and education professionals. These measures could help to save lives. My thanks go out to Lieutenant Governor Lamb, the Legislature, and all the members of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security who worked to develop this legislation and send it to my desk.”

The bills signed today by Fallin included:

OKLAHOMA CITY - Jane Horton of Owasso accepted the state's Gold Star Medal on Tuesday on behalf of her late husband, Spc. Christopher Horton, during a joint legislative session honoring the 45th Infantry Division and Oklahoma National Guard.

Sen. Dan Newberry, R-Tulsa, said it was the first ceremony to award the medal to a soldier who lost his life performing a deed of bravery or self-sacrifice during combat after Sept. 11, 2001.

Horton was a sniper who was killed in action Sept. 9, 2011, while serving in Afghanistan with the Oklahoma Army National Guard's 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Newberry said.

"Spc. Horton was killed when his unit was attacked with small arms fire in Zormat, Paktia Province," he said.

"On behalf of the citizens of the great state of ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11515 Wed, 10 Apr 2013 09:30 -0500 By SEAN MURPHY, Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The widows of two Oklahoma soldiers killed in Afghanistan were presented Tuesday with the Legislature's inaugural Gold Star Medal during a state Capitol ceremony honoring the Oklahoma National Guard's 45th Infantry Division.

Jane Horton of Owasso and Megan Ewy of Edmond both received the Gold Star Medal, an award created by the Legislature last year to honor Oklahoma military members killed in combat.

Horton received the honor on behalf of her late husband, Army Spc. Christopher Horton, who was killed in September 2011 in Afghanistan when his unit was attacked by small-arms fire. Ewy's husband, Army 2nd Lt. Jered Ewy, died in July 2011 while conducting a dismounted parole in Janak Kheyl, Afghanistan.

The two were among 19 Oklahoma National Guardsmen killed in Iraq and Afghanistan since the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, said Maj. Gen. Myles Deering,]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11497 Mon, 08 Apr 2013 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin announced today the federal government has approved the state’s request for federal aid related to the February 24-26 winter storm.

The declaration delivers public assistance to municipalities, counties and rural electric cooperatives for eligible infrastructure repairs and costs associated with responding to the storm.

“Large areas of Oklahoma were inundated with heavy snow in February,” Fallin said. “These funds will provide assistance to help municipalities, counties and rural electric cooperatives in the affected areas to cover the costs associated with responding to this significant winter storm.”

The counties included in this declaration are: Alfalfa, Beaver, Beckham, Blaine, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield, Grant, Kay, Kingfisher, Major, Noble, Roger Mills, Washita, Woods, and Woodward.

In these counties alone, the storm resulted in an estimated $7.5 million ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11471 Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Kenneth Farley as the associate district judge for McCurtain County. He is replacing Michael DeBerry, who resigned. Farley will begin service immediately.

Farley of Idabel is a private practice attorney focusing on bankruptcy and real estate litigation. He also represents several communities such as the towns of Idabel, Haworth, Garvin and Wright City. Prior to managing his own practice, he served as the assistant district attorney in McCurtain County from 1983 to 1986.

Farley also served in the U.S. Navy and received an honorable discharge in 1971.  For his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and he received a commendation for his service at the U.S. Naval Support Activity in Danang, Vietnam.

“Throughout his career, Kenneth Farley has proven to be an effective and talented professional in both the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11451 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:30 -0500 GE to Build Oil & Gas Global Research Center in Oklahoma

$110 Million Investment to Drive Best-In-Class Technology, Create 125 High-Tech Jobs

• New center to develop innovative technologies in oil and gas sector
• Strengthen GE’s Oil & Gas business, capitalizing on $11 billion in recent investments
• Continued GE investment in U.S. R&D jobs, totaling nearly 2,300 since 2009

OKLAHOMA CITY – General Electric (NYSE: GE) today announced that it will build a new Global Research Center in Oklahoma dedicated to driving innovation and technological advancements in the oil and gas sector and bringing products to market faster. The new facility, which is GE Research’s first sector-specific Center, represents a $110 million investment by the company and will result in the creation of 125 high-tech engineering jobs initially, in]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11412 Mon, 01 Apr 2013 17:00 -0500 By Governor Mary Fallin

Science isn’t just in labs. It touches every industry in our state – from agriculture and energy to health care, transportation and manufacturing. Researchers are developing plants that are drought tolerant, bridges with sensors embedded in the concrete to measure stress, and batteries that are microscopic for use in less invasive health equipment.

These are among the fascinating research and products being invented here in Oklahoma.  They are of global significance and are happening right here in our own backyard. 

These industries also present great potential for economic success in our state.  To capitalize on the great work in science and technology related fields already happening here, I have asked the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to develop a data-driven plan that will help us focus our policies on industries that have the greatest potential for wealth generation and job growth. ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11374 Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY -- Governor Mary Fallin today signed House Bill 1999, a bill ending the prohibition on horse meat processing for export in Oklahoma. Forty-six states, not including Oklahoma, currently allow horsemeat processing.

Governor Fallin released the following statement:

“In Oklahoma – as in other states – abuse is tragically common among horses that are reaching the end of their natural lives. Many horses are abandoned or left to starve to death. Others are shipped out of the country, many to Mexico, where they are processed in potentially inhumane conditions that are not regulated by the U.S. government. 

“Unfortunately, the 2006 federal ban on horse processing plants has made this situation worse. After the implementation of that ban, the Government Accountability Office reported a 60 percent increase in abused, neglected and starved horses. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also noted that over 166,000]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11371 Thu, 28 Mar 2013 15:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the state of Oklahoma has requested a major disaster declaration from the federal government related to the February 24-26 winter storm.

If approved, the designation would deliver federal funding to assist municipalities, counties and rural electric cooperatives with infrastructure repairs and costs associated with responding to the storm.

“Areas of Oklahoma were inundated with heavy snow during this weather event, causing widespread infrastructure damage and resulting in significant costs related to emergency response,” Fallin said.  “The disaster declaration will provide assistance to help municipalities, counties and rural electric cooperatives in the affected areas to cover the costs associated with responding to this significant winter storm.”

The counties included in this request are: Alfalfa, Beaver, Beckham, Blaine, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield,]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11311 Thu, 21 Mar 2013 12:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today appointed the members of a Blue Ribbon Panel for Developmental Disabilities. Fallin created the panel by executive order, and announced its formation last month at the Governor's Conference on Developmental Disabilities in Norman.

There are almost 60,000 men, women and children with intellectual disabilities in Oklahoma. Currently, the state has a waiting list of over 7,000 people requesting services from the state’s Developmental Disabilities Service Division (DDSD).

The new panel will develop a comprehensive plan to support individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families, starting with recommendations to address the state’s growing waiting list for DDSD services. It will also research and analyze best practices for the comprehensive delivery of high quality services.

“Our goal as a state is to be a resource that allows men, women and children with intellectual]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11271 Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the following appointments to various boards, agencies and commissions.

Board of Trustees for the Quartz Mountain Arts and Conference Center and Nature Park
 
Warren Greenlee of Altus is president of NBC Bank in Altus.  He is the current chairman of the Oklahoma Arts Institute, and is a past chairman of both the American Bankers Association Agricultural and Rural Bankers Committee and the Oklahoma Bankers Association.  Greenlee earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from Oklahoma State University.  He is being reappointed to the board for a seven-year term.  The appointment requires Senate confirmation.
 
Mary Scott of Mangum is director of federal programs, special education and state testing at Mangum Public Schools.  Scott serves as treasurer for both the Mangum]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11231 Fri, 15 Mar 2013 14:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin will be among the featured speakers Monday (March 18) at Creating Pathways to Prosperity, a Harvard University conference on education and workforce development.  The governor will focus on recent education reforms in Oklahoma such as degree and certificate completion initiatives, the strength of Oklahoma’s career technology centers, and the need to work closely with the business community when designing an educational pipeline that will create a highly skilled workforce.

“For the long-term success of our economy – and our nation – it’s essential we prepare our students and young adults to live productive lives with productive careers,” Fallin said.  “Speaking at the Creating Pathways to Prosperity conference is a great way to highlight the education reforms and initiatives that Oklahoma is pursuing to create the highly skilled workforce necessary to grow our]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11216 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 13:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the following appointments to various boards, agencies and commissions. 

Regional University System of Oklahoma

Lake Carpenter of Leedey is the senior vice president of the Bank of Western Oklahoma. He is the president elect for the Western Oklahoma bankers association and a founding board member of the Leedey Public School mentor program. Carpenter received a bachelor’s degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. He is replacing Joe Anna Hibler for a nine-year term. Confirmation from the Senate is required for his appointment.

Board of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Dr. Mary McCaffree of Oklahoma City is a professor of pediatrics at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She currently serves on the board of trustees at the American Medical Association]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11214 Thu, 14 Mar 2013 08:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today thanked the Oklahoma House of Representatives for passing House Bill 2042, a bill that would formalize the process of implementing the Justice Reinvestment Initiative (JRI). HB 2042 passed 57-35; it was authored by Rep. Jason Murphey.

JRI was created by HB 3052, which was signed into law by the governor in 2012. It seeks to reduce Oklahoma’s incarceration rate by transitioning non-violent offenders with substance abuse problems to drug and alcohol treatment. It also aims to reduce the recidivism rate by providing supervision for those who have been released from prison. 

The law also gives courts the option to use a presentence risk and needs-assessments/evaluations to help guide sentencing decisions regarding the most appropriate level of punishment, supervision, and treatment for each offender.

State agencies including the Office of the Governor, the Office of the Attorney]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11213 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 16:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement after District Attorney David Prater filedcharges against members of the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board:

“The men and women serving on the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board are community leaders and public servants who deserve to be treated with respect. They are tasked with difficult decisions that have a profound impact on many Oklahoma families and communities. While I may sometimes disagree with their individual recommendations, I have been thankful to work with board members who take their job seriously and execute their responsibilities faithfully.

“Last year, District Attorney David Prater made several reasonable observations regarding the way the board communicates. I made it clear at that time that I expected improvements to be made, and I am happy to say the board responded, overhauling its website and pursuing a series of changes aimed at improving]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11191 Wed, 13 Mar 2013 09:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin praised the Oklahoma House of Representatives today for passing HB 2032, a bill that lowers the top income tax rate from 5.25 percent to 5.0 percent. Fallin made the proposal in her 2013 State of the State address and included it in her executive budget.

“My thanks go out to the Oklahoma House of Representatives for their support of HB 2032, an important tax cutting measure,” said Fallin. “Reasonably and responsibly reducing the top rate will boost our economy and leave us with the revenue we need to support priorities like education and public safety.

“Lower taxes mean stronger economic growth and more job creation. It’s important for businesses to see that, even as other states and the federal government pursue tax hikes, Oklahoma remains committed to lower taxes and smaller government.” 

HB 2032 is authored by Speaker Shannon in the House and President Pro]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11171 Tue, 12 Mar 2013 15:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today praised Oklahoma legislators for taking action on a series of bills aimed at reducing prescription drug abuse. House Bills 1781, 1782 and 1783, authored by Rep. Todd Russ in the House and Sen. AJ Griffin in the Senate, assist agencies in researching prescription drug abuse in Oklahoma, aid first responders treating suspected prescription drug overdoses and limit access to dangerous prescription pain killers. All three have been passed in the House. Additional prescription drug measures have also been sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Ron Sharp.

“My thanks go out to the Oklahoma Legislature for passing a series of bills that combat prescription drug abuse,” Fallin said. “Eighty-one percent of drug-related deaths in Oklahoma are caused by prescription drugs. Nearly 8 percent of Oklahomans are abusing prescription painkillers, twice the national average. Legislation being worked on this session will help to ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11151 Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:30 -0500 State, Tribe Ink Compacts on Tobacco, Burn Bans

OKLAHOMA CITY – At a Capitol ceremony today, Governor Mary Fallin and Kaw Nation Chairman Guy Munroe signed compacts concerning tobacco taxes and burn bans.

“We recognize and appreciate the unique cultural and economic contributions of the tribes to our state.  My administration is committed to working with tribal government in a productive manner for the benefit of all Oklahomans,” Fallin said. “The signing of these compacts will provide both the state and Kaw Nation with new revenue that will enhance the availability and quality of government services for all Oklahomans, especially the tribal and non-tribal members in north central Oklahoma which the Kaw Nation already serves. I appreciate Chairman Munroe and the Kaw Nation for working with state officials on the signing of these compacts.”

“The Kaw Nation is very pleased to have]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11131 Fri, 08 Mar 2013 09:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today commended the works of Oklahoma’s most accomplished scientists, engineers and medical professionals, who will be honored tonight at an event to be held in Tulsa with the members of the National Academies. 

This event coincides with the 150th anniversary of the National Academies, which is a private, nonprofit institution that offers expert advice to congress on a wide-range of scientific, engineering and medical issues.

“I would like to congratulate the National Academies on celebrating its 150th anniversary,” Fallin said. “I appreciate everything the Oklahoma delegation to the National Academies does for the state and nation. Their members are providing expert advice on some of the biggest scientific, engineering and medical challenges facing the nation and even the world.”

The event will be held in Tulsa Community College’s Center for Creativity, 909 South ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11094 Tue, 05 Mar 2013 15:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today commented on the findings of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security:

“The tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary was an unwelcome reminder that we must actively work to address the mental health needs of our state. It also served to remind us of the need to ensure our schools are well-prepared for emergency situations.

“The Commission on School Security has done a good job at addressing those issues and we expect to be able to implement many of its proposals. My thanks go out to Lt. Governor Todd Lamb and the members of the commission for their diligent work to help ensure Oklahoma’s children and schools are kept safe."

By Governor Mary Fallin

In the last two years, Oklahoma has made great strides in improving our overall health.  Programs like the Certified Healthy initiatives are promoting healthier workplaces, schools and communities and helping us tackle health problems like obesity, Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease.

This year, my budget also includes more money to support prescription drug abuse prevention and treatment initiatives to help citizens overcome the challenges of substance abuse and addiction.

While these programs are working – we’ve moved from 49th in the country to 43rd in terms of health outcomes – there still is much work to be done to improve the health of Oklahoma.

Seventy percent of illnesses in this state are preventable. If we are going to make significant progress]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11074 Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:45 -0500 NORMAN – Governor Mary Fallin today signed an executive order authorizing the creation of a new Blue Ribbon Panel for Developmental Disabilities. The announcement came today during the Governor's Conference on Developmental Disabilities in Norman, Oklahoma.

The new panel will develop a comprehensive plan to: support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, address the state’s growing waiting list of thousands of individuals hoping to receive services from the state’s Developmental Disabilities Service Division, and research and analyze best practices for the comprehensive delivery of high quality services. The panel will also act in an advisory capacity to the governor on all issues related to providing community services for individuals with developmental disabilities. 

“There are nearly 60,000 men, women and children with developmental disabilities in Oklahoma,” Fallin said. “While the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11051 Mon, 04 Mar 2013 09:00 -0500 By Michael McNutt | Published: March 2, 2013

Gov. Mary Fallin is calling for a major overhaul of Oklahoma's pension system, wanting to consolidate the staff, boards and offices of several pension plans into one and change to a defined contribution instead of the traditional plan for new state employees.

“While our state tax-supported bond debt is low, our $11 billion unfunded pension liability represents 7 percent of our gross state product,” Fallin wrote in state Treasurer Ken Miller's Oklahoma Economic Report that was distributed Friday on the Internet. “That means every Oklahoman is on the hook for $2,900 in pension debt.”

Fallin said Oklahoma has seven pension plans, six of which have independent boards, staff, offices, consultants and investment managers.

About 220,000 employees and retirees are part of the state's pension system; those covered include teachers, agency workers, police, troopers, ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11031 Fri, 01 Mar 2013 08:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement regarding sequestration and the looming federal budget cuts to the military and government agencies:

“Oklahoma agencies have had months to prepare for a reduction in federal funds. While it is still unclear how many dollars each state agency will lose, we do not expect an immediate loss in state services. Months ago, I asked my cabinet secretaries and state agency directors to plan ahead for sequestration. We believe the state is well-prepared.

“With that said, it is clear the sequester is creating a chaotic and uncertain environment for businesses looking to invest, state governments tasked with crafting budgets, and those who receive federal benefits or who work for or contract with the government. That uncertainty is bad for the economy and is destroying jobs. Furthermore, the large and seemingly haphazard cuts to military spending reduce the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/11012 Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today commented on measures passed by the Oklahoma State Senate to improve service offered at the state’s veteran centers: 

“The brave men and women who have served in our nation’s Armed Services deserve nothing but the best.  I want to thank Senator Frank Simpson and others in the Oklahoma Senate for their work to reform the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs in order to deliver better services and safer facilities to Oklahoma’s veterans.  I look forward to working with the Legislature on additional reforms to the ODVA that will provide every Oklahoma veteran an opportunity to achieve their fullest potential.” 

Fallin, who was joined by community leaders and health care professionals at an event hosted by the American Cancer Society, said she would lead an initiative petition drive on the issue. While details of the petition have not yet been finalized, Fallin announced the creation of a new website, www.DontSmokeOnMe.com, where Oklahomans can sign up to receive more information.

Secondhand smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, including hundreds that are toxic and approximately 70 that can cause cancer. It causes an estimated 46,000 heart disease deaths and 3,400 lung cancer deaths annually among adult nonsmokers in the United States.

“Improving health and wellness in Oklahoma is a priority for me,” said Fallin. “Any plan]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10869 Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin announced today that Larry V. Parman of Oklahoma City will be appointed secretary of state and will begin serving on March 1, 2013. Parman replaces Michelle Day, who has been acting as interim secretary of state since February 1. He will serve as a senior advisor to the governor on policy, economic and legislative issues. The appointment requires the confirmation of the Oklahoma State Senate.

 “Larry Parman is a successful and experienced businessman who knows what it takes to create jobs in this challenging economy,” said Fallin. “He will be a great asset to the state and to my office as we work to develop and implement reforms that improve our business environment and spur private sector growth.”

“My thanks also go out to both former Secretary of State Glenn Coffee and Michelle Day,” Fallin continued. “Both performed their duties enthusiastically and well. I know]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10867 Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:00 -0500 Editorial

Gov. Mary Fallin took a courageous stand against what she correctly labeled “Oklahoma’s No. 1” killer in her State of the State address on Monday: Tobacco. Smoking and other tobacco products account for the death of 6,000 Oklahomans each year and cost Oklahomans billions of dollars in increased health care costs and lost workforce productivity. Reducing smoking in Oklahoma is not just a lifeand-death issue, it’s a quality of life issue and an economic issue.

To help reduce smoking and the exposure to secondhand smoke, the governor is proposing the restoration of local rights to communities, which would now be able to ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10788 Fri, 08 Feb 2013 09:15 -0500 By Michael McNutt | Published: February 8, 2013    

Public school districts would save millions of dollars by hooking up with a state agency to consolidate information technology workers and share in services, Oklahoma's information technology czar told a legislative panel Thursday.

The state has high-speed data transmission lines across the state, which especially would help schools in rural areas where high-speed Internet service is spotty, Alex Pettit, the state's chief information officer, said.

The state Office of Management and Enterprise Services, which has overseen the consolidation of information technology services in state agencies the past couple of years, also has staff in place to perform]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10787 Fri, 08 Feb 2013 08:45 -0500 By Govs. Jack Markell and Mary Fallin

States and the federal government are inseparable partners in creating a strong economic future for our country. What affects one partner affects the other. Just as governing a state is vital to the nation’s fiscal health, federal decisions are vital to a state’s fiscal health.

In January, we delivered this message at the National Governors Association’s State of the States Address. While each governor faces his or her own specific circumstances, we all have to facilitate job growth, educate our kids and balance our budgets.

Our state economies are tightly linked to the national economy. We know that with federal spending cuts states will receive less, but it is the uncertainty of how much, from where and when that undercuts our budgets and slows economic growth.

One of the largest uncertainties concerns elements of the fiscal cliff that were postponed or left out of the American]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10747 Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the opening of the Capitol Wellness Center, a new workout facility at the State Capitol that is part of Oklahoma’s larger effort to improve citizen health.

“A year ago I ordered the Capitol smoking room closed and a wellness center built in its place as a symbol of our commitment to a healthier, happier Oklahoma. Opening this center today as we begin a new legislative session is real progress we should be proud of,” Fallin said. “Staying healthy and fit has obvious personal benefits, but it also has wider benefits to our state and its economy. Healthy workers are more productive and have lower health care costs, which increases efficiency and drives down costs for public and private employers alike.”

Secretary of Health Dr. Terry Cline said he expects the Capitol Wellness Center will help improve personal health and lower health care costs for state employees who use]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10749 Mon, 04 Feb 2013 14:45 -0500

Gov. Mary Fallin challenged lawmakers Monday to cut the top bracket of the state's personal income tax, develop a plan to repair the crumbling state Capitol, provide money for earlier public school improvements and let local communities have control over tobacco use in public places.

The governor, beginning her third year in office, also asked lawmakers to overhaul the state workers' compensation system and to continue to back efforts to reduce the size of state government and increase the number of compressed natural gas vehicles in the state's fleet.

Fallin, in prepared remarks, sprinkled proposals on how lawmakers should appropriate nearly $7 billion for the 2014]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10607 Fri, 18 Jan 2013 11:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin joined with officials from Verizon in Tulsa today to announce that the company is adding up to 500 new jobs at its North Lakewood facility in Tulsa.  The jobs will be finance and accounting positions.  The company currently employs more than 900 at the Tulsa facility. 

“Today’s announcement is great news for Tulsa and northeastern Oklahoma. These positions represent the kind of high-quality, good paying jobs we are working to bring to the state,” Fallin said.  “We appreciate Verizon’s investment in Oklahoma and are excited about the 500 new jobs coming to Tulsa.  Today’s announcement is another great example that our pro-growth, pro-business policies are working and are making Oklahoma an even better place to do business.”

Verizon serves local, long distance, wireless and data customers in Oklahoma and has 50 retail stores and authorized agents]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10587 Thu, 17 Jan 2013 08:45 -0500

Nearly 600 jobs could be created in Oklahoma, the first state chosen as a testing site ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10570 Wed, 16 Jan 2013 15:30 -0500 Hundreds, and Perhaps Thousands, More Jobs Could Come to Oklahoma by 2025

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin, Secretary of Science and Technology Stephen McKeever and Michael Toscano, president & CEO of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), today unveiled new economic data which finds Oklahoma is poised to create nearly 600 new jobs in the first three years following the integration of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) into U.S. airspace. Meanwhile, beyond the first three years, Oklahoma stands to capture hundreds, and perhaps thousands, of additional new jobs by 2025.

The data come from a forthcoming AUVSI-commissioned study examining the national and state-by-state economic impact and job creation potential resulting from the UAS integration into national airspace, which is expected to occur by 2015.

“UAS represents one of the fastest-growing segments of the aerospace industry, ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10527 Thu, 10 Jan 2013 14:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the following appointments to various boards, councils and commissions:

 Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Historical Society

Charles Tate of Ardmore is the president of Hatak Shawi’, a company that performs historical research for the Chickasaw Nation. He was an attorney in private practice before serving as a special district judge in Carter County, from which he retired. He is a member of the Oklahoma Historical Society and a board member of the Arbuckle Council of the Boy Scouts of America.  Tate received a bachelor’s degree from Phillips University in Enid and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma. He will serve a three year term and is replacing Ken Rainbolt and represents District Three.

Oklahoma Conservation Commission

Scotty Herriman of South Coffeyville is]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10508 Thu, 10 Jan 2013 08:45 -0500

By Chris Casteel 

WASHINGTON — The federal budget wars are creating uncertainty in the states, Gov. Mary Fallin said Wednesday as she urged Congress and President Barack Obama to treat states as partners in the deficit-reduction]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10507 Thu, 10 Jan 2013 08:30 -0500 BY WAYNE GREENE World Senior Writer

Lurching from fiscal crisis to fiscal crisis in Washington is damaging the nation and makes the task of governing the states much more difficult, Gov. Mary Fallin said in a Washington speech Wednesday.

"It's hard for us as governors to write a budget," Fallin said in her speech at the National Press Club. "I have been working on my state budget ... (and) it keeps having to be adjusted."

The series of federal budget battles - which is on pace to recur with a federal debt limit fight in March - is damaging the nation, Fallin said.

"That uncertainty hurts our economy. It hurts our jobs. It doesn't help us when we try to plan the different services that we need to deliver in our state," Fallin said.

The "State of the States" speech was delivered along with]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10487 Wed, 09 Jan 2013 11:00 -0500 Speech Highlights Economy, Education, Health Care and Homeland Security

WASHINGTON—National Governors Association (NGA) Chair Delaware Gov. Jack Markell and Vice Chair Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin delivered the association’s first-ever State of the States address today at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

The governors focused on the current conditions and challenges faced by states and discussed the governors’ collective vision for 2013. Markell also highlighted several gubernatorial successes from the past year.

“It should come as no surprise how much we can accomplish when we work together. Governors and their federal partners were successful in crafting the command structure so that states and the federal government can respond in natural disasters,” Markell said. “We also worked with the first responder community and others to secure needed ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10489 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 12:15 -0500 Make Getting Fit Your New Year’s Resolution in 2013

By Governor Mary Fallin

It’s the beginning of a New Year, which means that many Oklahomans have made resolutions and personal goals for themselves for 2013. A lot of those resolutions probably include plans to get in shape and become more physically active.

I know as well as anyone that a resolution made on January 1 can seem daunting by January 31. But if improving your health and the health of your families is one of your goals, let me encourage you not to give up!

Getting fit isn’t just important for our personal well being; it’s an important pocketbook issue for Oklahoma families and a vital factor in the state’s economic wellbeing. Unfortunately, we have a lot of work to do. A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that Oklahoma is the least heart healthy of all 50 states. Our]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10427 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 08:45 -0500 By Michael McNutt | Published: January 6, 2013    

Gov. Mary Fallin, who as vice chairman of a national group of governors met with the president last month, will be back in the nation's capital this week urging Congress and the president not to unfairly slash funding to states in their effort to reduce the federal deficit.

Part of the message Fallin hopes to deliver is that states should be freed from spending mandates if federal budget cuts make them unaffordable, the Republican governor said.

“If they cut spending but yet still require us to maintain the same level of service without the money then they're basically going to be balancing the federal budgets on the states' backs and we don't want that]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10308 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 15:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following Christmas statement:

“I want to wish every Oklahoman a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season!  As we take time to celebrate with our families and friends this year, I hope we also will reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas and the message of hope and love it carries for us all.”

Inge of Atoka has been in private practice since 2011. Prior to managing her own practice, she was a partner at Reasor and Inge Law Offices from 2008 to 2011.  Inge served as chief financial officer for Mathis Brothers Furniture from 1995 to 2007.  She also was a partner at Stamper, Otis and Burrage law firm.

“In private practice and in the private sector, Paula Inge has proven to be an effective and talented professional,” Fallin said. “Given her well-rounded experience, I am confident she will serve the state, Atoka and Coal counties well in her new role as district judge.”

Inge earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Oklahoma and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law, where she graduated with]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10287 Fri, 21 Dec 2012 11:15 -0500 After Retirement, Ridley Will Remain Transportation Secretary in Governor’s Cabinet

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) Director Gary Ridley, who also serves as director of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA), announced today that he will retire from both positions in March 2013. Ridley will remain secretary of transportation in Governor Fallin’s administration after his departure from ODOT and OTA.

Ridley has worked with ODOT for 44 years and was appointed director of the agency in August 2001 under Governor Frank Keating. In May 2009, he became secretary of transportation to Governor Brad Henry before adding OTA director to his portfolio in October of that year. Under Fallin, he has continued to serve in all three roles.

“No one has done more for transportation in Oklahoma than Gary Ridley,” said Fallin. “From his start at ODOT in 1965 as an equipment]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10248 Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin has declared Friday, December 21, 2012, as a day of remembrance in Oklahoma for the victims of the Newtown, Connecticut, school shooting.  The governor’s proclamation asks Oklahomans to observe the day of remembrance with a moment of silence, reflection or prayer.

Governor Fallin issued the proclamation at the request of Connecticut Gov. Dannel Malloy, who is asking other states to join Connecticut in observing a day of remembrance Friday for the victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

“As Oklahomans, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the victims, their families and the entire community of Newtown, Connecticut,” Fallin said. “I encourage all Oklahomans to take time to observe this day with a moment of silence, a moment of prayer or reflection for the families and innocent victims of this horrible tragedy.”

Additionally, the governor encourages]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10247 Thu, 20 Dec 2012 11:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today commented on the Oklahoma Board of Equalization certified revenue figures.  According to the board, the governor will have approximately $7 billion in revenue to craft her budget for fiscal year 2014, an increase of $214.6 million, or 3.1 percent, from the previous year. However, the governor cautioned that fiscal uncertainty in Washington, D.C., called into question the availability of those funds. 

Among the highlights, the figures show that Oklahoma K-12 schools will get an extra $78.6 million in the next fiscal year through the House Bill 1017 Education Reform Revolving Fund.  Additionally, current revenue estimates indicate the state will deposit $66.4 million into the Rainy Day Fund (RDF), bringing the current balance of $577.5 million to approximately $643 million, the largest balance in the fund’s history.

“The certification of an additional $214 million in revenue is]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10227 Wed, 19 Dec 2012 14:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – In the wake of the tragic shootings in Newtown, Connecticut, Governor Mary Fallin is encouraging school officials and law enforcement officers to take advantage of security training seminars offered by the Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security.

“Preparing for the worst is the best way to save lives,” Fallin said. “All of us want to do everything we can to keep Oklahoma’s children and schools safe.  As school administrators evaluate their emergency response plans and campus security, I want to encourage them to take advantage of the resources and seminars offered by the Oklahoma Department of Homeland Security.”

At the seminars, Oklahoma homeland security officials cover a wide variety of topics with school officials, including the importance of developing, updating and exercising an emergency response plan.  Additionally, the training includes instruction for school officials on how to conduct a]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10127 Thu, 13 Dec 2012 10:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced she has appointed Judge L. Brad Taylor of Tulsa to serve as presiding judge of the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Court.  Taylor, whom Governor Fallin appointed to the Workers’ Compensation Court earlier this year, replaces Judge Michael J. Harkey as presiding judge on the court.

As part of the landmark workers’ compensation reforms Governor Fallin signed into law in 2011, the governor was required to appoint a new presiding judge to serve a two-year term beginning on Jan. 1, 2013.  The Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Court resolves legal disputes involving those injured in the workplace.  In addition to presiding over all meetings of the court, the presiding judge also has other supervisory responsibilities relating to such areas as personnel, budgetary and financial management.

“Judge Brad Taylor’s experience having represented both employers and]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10107 Tue, 11 Dec 2012 15:45 -0500 Oklahoma has improved its state health ranking according to the United Health Foundation, which released its annual “America’s Health Rankings” scorecard today. For overall health, Oklahoma is ranked 43rd in 2012. Over the last several years, Oklahoma’s ranking has ranged from 46th to 49th.

“Today’s rankings show that our efforts to increase access to health care, reduce infant mortality and promote healthy living in schools and workplaces are working. Oklahoma is moving in the right direction, getting people better care with better outcomes,” said Gov. Mary Fallin. “Health is such an important issue in Oklahoma because it affects both our quality of life and our economy. For families, poor health can mean personal tragedy and medical bills that break the bank. For businesses, it means lower workforce productivity. That’s why it’s so important to continue this forward momentum. My thanks go]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10048 Fri, 07 Dec 2012 12:00 -0500 Public/ private sector partnership to fund construction

OKLAHOMA CITY– Governor Mary Fallin today announced the construction of a new interchange at Radio Road and Interstate-40 in El Reno, an area that has become a regional business center for the energy service industry. The project was made possible by a historic partnership between Chesapeake Energy Corporation, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, and the city of El Reno. Expected to be complete in 2014, the new interchange is the largest public-private transportation infrastructure project in the state.

“As governor, my number one priority is supporting the creation of good private sector jobs,” Fallinsaid. “To maintain that job growth, we need to continue to improve our transportation infrastructure and ensure that Oklahoma businesses have access to modern and well maintained roads and bridges. This project is a great example of how the public and ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/10047 Fri, 07 Dec 2012 10:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Secretary of State Glenn Coffee today announced that he will be stepping down to pursue opportunities in the private sector. Coffee has held his current cabinet level position in Governor Mary Fallin’s administration since January 2011. Prior to serving as secretary of state, Coffee was the president pro tempore of the Oklahoma State Senate.  Coffee will step down no later than Jan. 31, 2013.

“Serving the state of Oklahoma has been my dream since I was a small boy,” Coffee said. “Being able to serve on such a high level, first as senate president pro tem and then as secretary of state, is truly a dream come true."

“While I am sad to leave my post in the Fallin administration, I could not be happier with the course that Governor Fallin has charted for the state of Oklahoma. For the last two years I have had the great privilege of helping the governor craft policies that will continue]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9948 Tue, 04 Dec 2012 16:30 -0500 By Patrick B. McGuigan | CapitolBeatOK

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin told President Barack Obama the nation’s governors can help solve the federal financial crisis, but they’ll need more authority and fewer directives from Washington D.C.

Fallin was among a group of governors who met today with the president, Vice President Joe Biden and other administration staffers.

Speaking with reporters in a press call at midday, Fallin said she stressed four points on behalf of the delegation. The focus was the so-called “fiscal cliff,” the looming deadline for automatic budget and tax cuts.

Fallin said federal reforms should “produce savings for both the federal government and states.” She pointed to shared responsibility for running certain programs should also mean “shared savings.” As an example of]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9914 Mon, 03 Dec 2012 15:15 -0500 By Governor Mary Fallin

This past month, I announced Oklahoma would not implement two key components of President Obama’s health care law: the creation of a health insurance exchange and the expansion of Medicaid. I’m writing this month to let you know why that decision is in the best interests of Oklahoma taxpayers and families.

For several months, my staff and I have worked with other lawmakers, Oklahoma stakeholders and health care experts across the country to determine the best course of action for Oklahoma in regards to both a possible health insurance exchange and the potential expansion of Medicaid.

Our priority has been to ascertain what can be done to increase quality and access to health care, contain costs, and do so without placing an undue burden on taxpayers or the state. As I have stated many times before, it is my firm belief that the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) fails to further these goals, and ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9887 Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today voiced support for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s proposal not to list the lesser prairie chicken as an “endangered species,” and to instead list it only as “threatened.” A federal listing of “endangered” comes with more punitive and job-killing restrictions that would harm economic activity like wind power development. In Oklahoma, the state has invested $26 million since 1996 in conservation efforts in over 563,000 acres in an attempt to protect the lesser prairie chicken. 

“Officials in my administration along with other state agencies have been diligently working to conserve the habitat of the lesser prairie chicken while taking into account our desire to create jobs and support industry,” Fallin said. “I want to thank the members of my administration who have done a terrific job in representing Oklahoma stakeholders on this issue including]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9868 Fri, 30 Nov 2012 09:00 -0500 By Michael McNutt, The Oklahoman

The holiday season has arrived at the state Capitol.

Gov. Mary Fallin, with the first gentleman and Santa Claus standing nearby, capped off a day of decorating and festive activities by lighting the state Capitol Christmas tree Thursday evening on the south steps outside the Capitol.

An estimated 1,500 students decorated 36 small Christmas trees throughout the Capitol a couple of hours before more than 2,000 LED lights were lit on the 30-foot-tall artificial tree.

In addition, 100 evergreens in the State Capitol Park were lighted. The trees were donated by the Weyerhaeuser Co. Foundation.

Before the ceremony, Fallin said her Christmas wish for Oklahomans is for everyone to live in peace and happiness.

“My hope is that next year will be even a better year for everyone in Oklahoma,” she said.

Fallin said she and her husband, Wade Christensen, will spend]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9867 Fri, 30 Nov 2012 09:00 -0500 By Zeke Campfield, The Oklahoman

Oklahoma's cities and counties continue to recover from the nationwide recession faster than other states, according to a report released this week by the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Personal income grew last year in all of the nation's 366 metropolitan statistical areas for the first time since 2007, but the growth rate in Oklahoma City and Oklahoma County was far beyond the national average, according to “Local Area Personal Income, 2009-2011.”

Personal income growth was 7.6 percent in the Oklahoma City metro area from 2010-11 and 7.2 percent countywide, compared with an average nationwide increase of 5.2 percent.

The Tulsa metro area saw similar growth, and both Tulsa and Oklahoma City rate increases were among]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9847 Thu, 29 Nov 2012 12:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of David Stewart, a business executive with experience in a variety of enterprises, as chief administrative officer of the Oklahoma Ordnance Works Authority (OOWA), which operates the MidAmerica Industrial Park in Pryor. 

Stewart will be the third administrator of the (OOWA) which oversees the industrial park, succeeding Sanders Mitchell who headed the organization for 35 years before retiring earlier this year.  The authority, created as a state beneficiary public trust in 1960, owns and operates the 9,000-acre MidAmerica Industrial Park which is home to operations of nearly 80 companies, including Google, Solae, Airgas, Georgia- Pacific, Red Devil, and others. 

“David Stewart is an experienced business leader and Oklahoma is fortunate to have him,” Fallin said.  “I appreciate the efforts of the MidAmerica board in conducting an extensive search ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9807 Wed, 21 Nov 2012 14:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following Thanksgiving Day statement:

“I continue to be thankful for the opportunity and the honor to serve as Oklahoma's governor, as well as for my wonderful family and friends.

“Like Americans everywhere, I am also thankful that we live in a nation that cherishes liberty and for the brave men and women of our military who protect our freedoms.

“As we approach Thanksgiving Day, I’mwishing all Oklahomans a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday season."

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin and Secretary of Transportation Gary Ridley today announced the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has added 160 compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles to the department’s statewide fleet.  The vehicles will primarily be used by field division offices across the state.  The department has four Honda Civics, which are ready for use by the agency, and 156 three-quarter ton Dodge Ram pickups, which the agency expects to receive in January and put into use immediately.

“Converting our state fleets to CNG will not only save millions in taxpayer dollars in fuel costs, but it promotes the use of a cleaner burning fuel made in the United States and the creation of American jobs,” Fallin said.  “I appreciate the leadership of Secretary Ridley]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9751 Mon, 19 Nov 2012 16:00 -0500 Drive provides much-needed meals for hungry Oklahomans

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin’s third annual Feeding Oklahoma Food and Fund Drive ended Thursday with a record-breaking amount of donations. The drive exceeded the goal of raising 1.2 million meals to help feed hungry Oklahomans this holiday season with more than $359,611 donated and 823,278 pounds of food collected.  The month-long effort will provide more than 2.6 million meals.

“I am continually overwhelmed by the support and generosity shown by Oklahomans in all 77 counties, and this year’s food drive proves to be no different,” Fallin said. “I want to especially thank all the sponsors and the caring people of this state who donated their time and resources to help feed our neighbors in Oklahoma.  Oklahoma is a great place because of its people.  Their support of this food drive will ensure more Oklahoma families have a better]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9750 Mon, 19 Nov 2012 11:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement announcing that Oklahoma will not pursue the creation of a state-based exchange or participate in the Medicaid expansion in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA):

“For the past few months, my staff and I have worked with other lawmakers, Oklahoma stakeholders and health care experts across the country to determine the best course of action for Oklahoma in regards to both the creation of a health insurance exchange and the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Our priority has been to ascertain what can be done to increase quality and access to health care, contain costs, and do so without placing an undue burden on taxpayers or the state. As I have stated many times before, it is my firm belief that PPACA fails to further these goals, and will in fact decrease the quality of health care across the United States while contributing to the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9748 Sat, 17 Nov 2012 12:00 -0500 Bipartisan Meeting Will Focus on Transition from Campaigning to Governing

SAN DIEGO, CA—Veteran governors welcomed governors-elect this weekend for an executive-style retreat to help them prepare for service as state chief executives during the National Governors Association (NGA) Seminar for New Governors.

The two-and-a-half day biennial seminar brings together governors fresh off the campaign trail and assists in the transition from running for office to governing their states. The seminar runs from Friday, Nov. 16, through Sunday, Nov. 18.

“It is an honor to work with such a diverse and talented group of governors from across the country,” said NGA Chair Delaware Gov. Jack Markell. “We will be working together advocating before the federal government and developing best practices policy solutions for states. At the Seminar for New Governors, we take off our partisan hats and get down to the business of]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9707 Sun, 11 Nov 2012 11:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin released the following statement concerning Veterans Day 2012:
 
“My sincerest and deepest thanks go out to every man and woman who has worn the uniform of the United States Military, as well as their families. These are Oklahoma’s true heroes, and we will never forget their dedication, service and sacrifice.” 
 
“This Veterans Day, I’m asking all Oklahomans to join me in remembering and honoring these great individuals. If you see a veteran, thank them for their service. Pray for those who are today serving in the military, as well as their families. Let us all take a moment to reflect on how lucky we are to live in a country for which so many have sacrificed so much to protect.”

For more than 350 years, brave men and women have worn the uniform of the United States Military in order to defend our freedom.  These heroes have answered our nation’s call and served with honor and dignity.  In return for their service, they deserve our respect, our gratitude and our profound appreciation for their dedication and sacrifice.  That’s why, at the Oklahoma Capitol, working for our veterans continues to be a top priority.  We can never fully repay the debt of gratitude owed to our veterans, but we can continue to pursue policies that recognize and honor their service.

Honoring our veterans starts with making sure they are properly equipped to do their job. That’s why we have personally visited Oklahoma National Guard facilities and troops preparing for deployment to ensure they have the best equipment and training]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9627 Fri, 02 Nov 2012 09:30 -0500 Dave Lopez Will Step Down But Continue Work as Secretary of Commerce on Fallin’s Cabinet

OKLAHOMA CITY - Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Jonna Kirschner as the director of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC).  Kirschner, who served as deputy director of the agency, will replace Dave Lopez, who is resigning as ODOC director but will remain secretary of commerce in the governor’s cabinet. 

“I want to thank Dave Lopez for his creativity, dedication and leadership as director of the Department of Commerce,” Fallin said.  “He has served as an enthusiastic and effective advocate for the state of Oklahoma as we work to grow our economy and build a more prosperous state.  He will be missed in the day-to-day operation of the Commerce Department, but we will continue to rely on his expertise as secretary of commerce in my cabinet.”

Lopez said that ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9609 Thu, 01 Nov 2012 15:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today reappointed Preston Doerflinger as director of the Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES), formerly the Office of State Finance.  Doerflinger resigned in March as OMES director in order to serve as interim director of the Department of Human Services (DHS) at Fallin’s request.

With the recent selection of Ed Lake as permanent DHS director, Doerflinger is returning to his post at OMES.  Doerflinger’s reappointment requires confirmation from the Oklahoma State Senate.  During his absence, Transition Project Manager Carol McFarland served as acting OMES director.  Doerflinger remained secretary of finance on the governor’s cabinet during his time at DHS.

“I want to commend Preston Doerflinger for his service as interim director of DHS,” Fallin said. “Preston helped guide DHS during a critical time when key reforms, such as the Pinnacle Plan,]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9608 Thu, 01 Nov 2012 15:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today praised the Oklahoma Human Services Commission for its vote to complete the state’s transition from institutional care to community services for Oklahomans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The commission oversees the Developmental Disabilities Services Division (DDSD) of the Department of Human Services (DHS). Earlier today, the commission passed a resolution directing that Oklahoma’s two state-run institutions for persons with developmental disabilities, the Southern Oklahoma Resource Center (SORC) in Pauls Valley and the Northern Oklahoma Resource Center in Enid (NORCE), be closed over the next two to three years. Residents of these facilities will be transitioned to community living arrangements, an option that provides greater flexibility for people with disabilities and is already being used by over 5,000 Oklahomans.

“The vast majority of Oklahomans currently receiving assistance]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9587 Wed, 31 Oct 2012 11:45 -0500 Gun Owners who Open Carry Must Have a Handgun License

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today reminded citizens who plan to take advantage of Oklahoma’s “Open Carry” law to study the law and remain in compliance. Under the new law, which goes into effect tomorrow, November 1, citizens with a handgun license issued by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) will now be able to carry both concealed handguns and openly displayed hand guns. Previously, license holders were only able to carry concealed weapons.

“Oklahoma will soon become one of 44 states that allow some kind of ‘open carry,’” Fallin said. “I believe the law is consistent with the spirit of the Second Amendment and that similar laws in other states have shown that open carry can be implemented safely and responsibly. However, it is important that citizens, especially those that plan to openly]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9567 Tue, 30 Oct 2012 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) announced today that Oklahoma is sending a 10-person operations support team to the state of New York to assist in the Hurricane Sandy recovery effort.  The team includes personnel from OEM, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety and the city of Tulsa.  The Oklahoma delegation will help support the state of New York Emergency Operations Center.

The team is deploying in response to an Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) request from New York State Office of Emergency Management. OEM is monitoring additional requests from the affected areas. Fallin has also reached out to other governors whose states have been hard hit by Hurricane Sandy. Where Oklahoma can meet assistance requests, further support is expected to be deployed.

“Oklahoma is a generous and giving state and we are happy to provide whatever support and]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9527 Fri, 19 Oct 2012 15:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today commended the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, which officially approved the transfer of appropriated funds to reduce the backlog in the state’s matching funds program for endowed chairs at their meeting Thursday.

The Regents’ Endowment Fund Program, created in 1988, is a one-to-one matching program for state and private donations to fund academic positions and other related projects, mostly in the areas of science, technology and math, at Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities.

Due to the popularity of the program and the amount of private contributions raised, the state had recently fallen behind in matching contributions, resulting in a backlog of $282.3 million. During the 2012 legislative session, Governor Fallin signed into law Senate Bill 1969, which authorized the transfer of $141.9 million to reduce the backlog in the endowed chairs program.

“The]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9469 Wed, 17 Oct 2012 15:15 -0500 Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement regarding the death of Ray Ackerman:

“Ray Ackerman will always be remembered for his civic leadership, unique business savvy and service to his country while serving in the Navy for 35 years.

His contributions went beyond starting the largest and oldest advertising agency in Oklahoma, Ackerman dedicated his life to promoting Oklahoma City.

His work with the Oklahoma River will be his lasting legacy and now with a statue recognizing his longtime advocacy will allow his work to live on forever.

My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to his family in their time of grief.”

###

“Governor Fallin asked for an audit of the Native American Cultural and Educational Authority (NACEA) earlier this year to help decide the best way to move this American Indian Cultural Center and Museum project forward.

The audit makes it clear that the NACEA needs to be operated more efficiently and effectively than it has been in the past. There are many factors that have lead to these outcomes and the delays in the project’s completion have in turn wasted taxpayer resources due to increased materials costs, as well as delaying the generation of revenue.

However, with the addition of new leadership last year, Governor Fallin feels the NACEA has begun to correct many of the issues addressed in the audit.

Moving forward, it is important for the Legislature, NACEA leadership and all stakeholders to work together to ensure that this project, which the state]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9450 Mon, 15 Oct 2012 13:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today applauded the selection of Edward Lake as the new director of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS).  The DHS Commission announced Lake’s selection at a board meeting on Wednesday.

Lake of Hendersonville, Tenn., served as deputy commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Human Services from 1992 through 1996 and then again from 2003 through 2011.  He also served as an assistant commissioner at the department from 1996 through 2003.  During his career in Tennessee, he served at almost every level of the Tennessee Department of Human Services including as a child welfare caseworker, both a county and regional director and as an administrator.

“I applaud the selection of Edward Lake as the next director of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services,” Fallin said.  “With experience at nearly every level of the Tennessee Department of Human Services, Ed]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9427 Fri, 12 Oct 2012 09:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY– Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Dr. Kathleen Elliott of Broken Arrow to the Oklahoma Board of Examiners in Optometry.
 
Elliott is a pediatric optometrist in Tulsa. She is also an adjunct professor at Northeastern State University (NSU) college of Optometry in Tahlequah.
 
“Dr. Elliott has impeccable credentials and years of experience that make her an ideal appointee,” Fallin said. “The state of Oklahoma will benefit from her service.”
 
Elliott is the first female doctor to be appointed to the Oklahoma Board of Examiners in Optometry. Her father, Dr. George Foster, previously served on the board for 12 years and was first appointed by former Governor George Nigh and then reappointed by former Governors Henry Bellmon and David Walters.  This makes them the first father-daughter combination to serve on the board.

“It is an]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9407 Thu, 11 Oct 2012 11:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today kicked off her third annual Feeding Oklahoma Food and Fund Drive, which begins on Oct. 15, with the goal of raising 1.2 million meals to help feed hungry families, children and seniors this holiday season. The month long food and fund drive will benefit the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, and their partner agencies across the state.

“Time and again, Oklahomans prove to be the most caring and giving individuals in the nation,” Fallin said. “Last year, Oklahomans from all 77 counties came together and donated well over one million meals during the holiday season. This year, we can do even more for the hungry in our state.”

According to the USDA, Oklahoma ranks as the fifth-hungriest state in the nation, with more than 675,000 Oklahomans]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9408 Tue, 09 Oct 2012 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin will lead a delegation of business and civic leaders from northeastern Oklahoma on an economic development trip to Europe from October 15 – October 19.  The trip, organized by the Tulsa Metro Chamber, will include meetings with senior executives at companies with employment or operations in Oklahoma.  Officials from the Tulsa Metro Chamber and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce will also attend.

The trip will provide an opportunity for the governor and business leaders to encourage expansion and retention of jobs and investment from those foreign-based companies operating in Oklahoma.  The companies with which the delegation will meet represent key industries in Oklahoma including the aerospace, energy and manufacturing industries.  In 2011, Oklahoma exports totaled $6.2 billion. Oklahoma’s exports increased 41 percent from 2009 to 2011, marking the third-consecutive year of significant export ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9327 Fri, 05 Oct 2012 14:30 -0500 OKLAOMA CITY – Gov. Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Allen Wright to the GRDA board of directors. He is replacing David Chernicky, who resigned.

Wright of Edmond is thevice president of public and government affairs for Devon Energy. Prior to working for Devon, he was the director, chief operating officer and vice president at Koch Industries.

Wright previously worked as an assistant to former Governor Henry Bellmon, an administrative aide to then-Corporation Commissioner J.C. Watts and as chief of staff for Congressman Frank Lucas.

“Allen is a successful businessman who has always been engaged in his community,” Fallin said. “I know he will make an excellent and engaged board member at the GRDA.”

Wright serves on the Public Affairs Council National Board of Directors. He is also involved with Habitat for Humanity, serves as a board member for the Ronald McDonald House, Oklahoma City]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9310 Thu, 04 Oct 2012 14:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today lifted the statewide governor’s burn ban currently in effect for 33 Oklahoma counties effective immediately.

“With cooler temperatures and higher humidity we are seeing a lower occurrence of wildfire,” Fallin said. “These factors combined with recent precipitation across the state allow the ban to be lifted.”

Oklahomans are encouraged to remain cautious with campfires, debris burning, outdoor cooking, welding and other activities that include an open flame.

“Even with the rains we have received, drought conditions are still plaguing some counties”, said State Forester George Geissler.  “Everyone should be weather aware and consider the conditions before they do any activity which could spark a wildfire.

Cimarron County remains under a county burn ban at this time.  County commissioner burn bans can change frequently. Citizens are]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9308 Thu, 04 Oct 2012 13:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper today announced the preliminary results of a multistate solicitation designed to encourage auto manufacturers in the U.S. to develop more functional and affordable compressed natural gas vehicles.

Fallin and Hickenlooper are leading a bipartisan group of 22 states seeking to use CNG vehicles in their state fleets.

The two governors announced the start of the project one year ago, at last year’s Governor’s Energy Conference in Oklahoma City. Since then, Fallin and Hickenlooper have petitioned other states and governors, met with automobile manufacturers in Detroit, and issued a Request for Proposal soliciting bids for more affordable CNG vehicles for use in state fleets. After receiving the support of 20 other states, they announced the preliminary results of the initiative at today’s conference.

“The initiative has been enormously]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9289 Wed, 03 Oct 2012 12:00 -0500                   2012 Energy Efficiency Scorecard Top 10 Also Includes MT, SC CA, NY, OR, VT, CT, RI, WA, MD, and MN;

States Most in Need of Improvement Are NE, LA, MO, KS, AK, SD, WY, WV, ND, and MS

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 3, 2012): States continue to move strongly in 2012 to advance energy efficiency initiatives regardless of which political party is in control of state legislatures and governors' offices, according to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) on the release today of its sixth annual State Energy Efficiency Scorecard.

Available online at http://www.ok.gov/governor/9287 Wed, 03 Oct 2012 09:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Michael DeBerry to the 17th Judicial District Office of McCurtain, Choctaw and Pushmataha Counties. He is replacing Willard Driesel, who is deceased.

Counties to remain under the Governor proclaimed burn ban are: Beaver,Bryan, Carter, Cimarron, Comanche, Cotton, Ellis, Garfield, Garvin, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Haskell, Jackson, Jefferson, Kay, Kiowa, Latimer, Le Flore, Love, Marshall, Murray, Noble, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, Pontotoc, Stephens, Texas, Tillman, Washita, Woods and ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9288 Fri, 28 Sep 2012 10:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper will announce the results of a multistate solicitation designed to encourage auto manufacturers in the U.S. to develop more functional and affordable compressed natural gas vehicles. Fallin and Hickenlooper are leading a bipartisan group of 22 states seeking to use CNG  vehicles in their state automobile fleets.
 
Earlier this year, both governors travelled to Detroit to meet with automakers about the project. In July, the states issued a request for proposal soliciting bids for compressed natural gas sedans, pickups, and vans to be used in state fleets.
 
On Thursday, Oct. 4, Fallin and Hickenlooper will announce the preliminary results of that effort at the Governor’s Energy Conference held at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9189 Thu, 27 Sep 2012 16:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appeal for disaster aid for Cleveland County has been approved by the federal government, making individual assistance available to residents and business owners affected by this summer’s wildfires.

Oklahoma and Payne counties again were denied federal assistance.

“I am pleased the federal government has accepted our appeal and finally decided to provide help to Cleveland County,” Fallin said. “Unfortunately, the White House has once again denied aid to Oklahoma and Payne counties. Having visited wildfire damage in all three locations and seen families left with no home and businesses burned to the ground, I continue to believe the residents of Oklahoma and Payne counties are deserving of federal aid. The state of Oklahoma will continue to look for ways to provide assistance to the victims of wildfires, regardless of which county the live in.”

The August]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9127 Fri, 21 Sep 2012 09:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin will host key policy makers and energy industry leaders from across the nation in Oklahoma City for the 52^nd annual meeting of the Southern States Energy Board (SSEB).  Governor Fallin serves as chairman of the SSEB.  The annual meeting, which runs from Sept. 23-25, will bring together experts in diverse disciplines offering policy and technology solutions.  The theme of the annual meeting is “Toward Energy Independence.”

“The SSEB is a key leader in the effort to promote the traditional energy resources that are needed and utilized by Oklahoma and other states every day,” Fallin said. “To ensure our energy security and to create jobs and grow the economy, we must expand domestic energy production and become less reliant on foreign sources of energy.”

Governor Fallin will deliver the chair’s message at 8:30 a.m. Monday.  The event is]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9072 Mon, 17 Sep 2012 17:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today made an unannounced visit to the Northern Oklahoma Resources Center of Enid (NORCE) to get a firsthand account of the operation and care delivered at the facility.  Last week, the governor made a similar visit to the Southern Oklahoma Resources Center (SORC) in Pauls Valley.

During the visits, the governor spoke with administrators, staff and clients, toured the property, got an update on the condition of the facilities and was given a briefing on the types and quality of services provided to clients.  Later this year, the Department of Human Services Commission is expected to consider a proposal to determine the future of both facilities.

“For the clients of NORCE and SORC and their families, it’s important we work to provide them the best care possible,” Fallin said.  “Visiting these facilities in person gives me a greater understanding and firsthand knowledge about]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9088 Mon, 17 Sep 2012 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Bernard Jones as Oklahoma County District Judge.  He is replacing Judge Tammy Bass LeSure.

Jones of Edmond previously served as associate dean for admissions and external affairs at Oklahoma City University (OCU) School of Law. Prior to joining OCU, he was an associate at the Oklahoma City law firm of McAfee & Taft where he focused on labor and employment issues.  He also served as an associate at Porter Wright Morris and Arthur, an Ohio law firm in Ohio.

“As an attorney in private practice and as a member of the OCU School of Law faculty, Bernard Jones has proven himself as a talented and skillful attorney committed to upholding the law,” Fallin said. “Additionally, he is a civic leader in our community dedicated to helping others.  These qualities ensure Bernard Jones will serve the state well during his time as an Oklahoma County district]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9071 Mon, 17 Sep 2012 14:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed an executive order removing 22 counties from a statewide Governor Burn Ban that has been in place since August 3. Fifty five counties remain under a state-issued burn ban. The change in the Governor Burn Ban is due to improving wildland fire conditions and comes at the request of Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry.

The Governor’s Burn Ban is now in effect for Adair, Alfalfa, Beaver, Blaine, Bryan, Caddo, Canadian, Carter, Cherokee, Cimarron, Comanche, Cotton, Craig, Custer, Ellis, Garfield, Garvin, Grady, Grant, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Haskell, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnston, Kay, Kingfisher, Kiowa, Latimer, LeFlore, Logan, Love, McIntosh, Major, Marshall, Mayes, Murray, Muskogee, Noble, Nowata, Osage, Pawnee, Payne, Pontotoc, Rogers, Sequoyah, Stephens, Texas, Tillman, Wagoner, Washington, Washita, Woods and Woodward Counties.

Fallin thanked]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9067 Mon, 17 Sep 2012 10:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin announced today that she and members of her Cabinet will be holding a Town Hall Meeting and lunch open to the public, on Wednesday, September 26. The event will take place at the OSU Tulsa Campus and begin at 11:30 AM (details below). Topics will include issues important to Tulsa and Northeast Oklahoma, including education, the development of Oklahoma’s high tech jobs sector, transportation infrastructure, and more. A question and answer session will follow remarks from Fallin and select cabinet members. A free lunch will be provided to those attending the meeting. 

“Town Hall meetings are a great way for me to update Oklahomans on the work we’re doing for them at the State Capitol, as well as an important opportunity to listen to their questions and concerns,” Fallin said. “I’m looking forward to our event in Tulsa, and I invite anyone interested in state government to come to the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9068 Fri, 14 Sep 2012 10:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Leading energy industry officials as well as key policy makers will gather in Oklahoma City on Thursday, Oct. 4, for the Governor’s Energy Conference, Governor Mary Fallin announced today.  The conference will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Cox Business Center in Oklahoma City and is presented by the Office of the Oklahoma Secretary of Energy and the Meinders School of Business, and sponsored by the Karl F. and June S. Martin Family Foundation.

“States like Oklahoma are leading the way when it comes to energy policy.  This conference brings together industry leaders as well as key policy makers to discuss the future of American-made energy and the path forward to energy independence,” Fallin said.  “I encourage all those who are interested in energy policy to attend.”

The conference features input and presentations from leading oil and natural gas industry executives, and other]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/9069 Tue, 11 Sep 2012 09:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement regarding the anniversary of the September 11 attacks:

“Eleven years ago today, our nation mourned as thousands of lives were lost in the 9/11 attacks,” Fallin said.  “Today, let us pause to remember the innocent victims who were killed in the attacks, as well as their family and friends.  Let us also honor the thousands of firefighters, police officers and first responders, as well as those aboard Flight 93, whose heroic actions saved countless lives.

“While our nation has not experienced an attack on our soil since that day, we must remain vigilant against those who would support tyranny over liberty and seek to do us harm.  We appreciate the men and women of our Armed Forces for their service and sacrifice in the effort to keep us safe from our enemies.”

Nothing tempers the chill of partisan politics like a Saturday afternoon of sunshine and family — even when it's the governor who plays host.

Well, perhaps seeing a unique swimming pool also would be nice.
 
For Carson Kardokus, 9, at Septemberfest with his mom, dad and two younger brothers, nothing short of both would do the trick.
 
“He wants to see the swimming pool because it's apparently shaped like the state of Oklahoma, or at least that's what we heard,” said Kardokus's mother, Shannon, who corralled her sons into Gov. Mary Fallin's mansion for a quick tour. Her youngest son, Creed, carried a stuffed Clifford the Big Red Dog under his arm.
 
Earlier that morning, Fallin read a story to the boys and other children out on the mansion lawn, Shannon Kardokus said. A petting zoo, inflatable toys and]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8928 Wed, 05 Sep 2012 09:00 -0500 Free event runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin and First Gentleman Wade Christensen today announced the 16th annual Septemberfest will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Oklahoma Governor’s Mansion and the Oklahoma History Center.  The event is freeand open to the public and features a variety of activities for the entire family.

“An Oklahoma fall favorite, Septemberfest is a great way to spend time with the whole family,” Fallin said. “I invite all Oklahomans to come out to the Governor’s Mansion and enjoy the great entertainment we’ve assembled. Wade and I are really looking forward to meeting people from all over the state and welcoming them to this wonderful Oklahoma event.”

Sponsored by the Friends of the Mansion, Septemberfest is a celebration ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8927 Tue, 04 Sep 2012 11:00 -0500 Burn Ban Remains in Effect Due to Continued Wildfire Danger

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced that exemptions have been added to the statewide burn ban, although the Governor’s Burn Ban continues to remain in effect. The decision was made in consultation with Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, and based on existing wildfire fuel conditions and ongoing drought. 

“I understand the length of this burn ban has made it difficult for some, particularly our agriculture producers,” said Fallin. “Therefore, exemptions are being added to allow for the use of fire under very specific, controlled conditions. Existing exemptions, including those related to grilling, road construction, welding and oilfield operations, will remain in place.”

Under the amended burn ban,]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8850 Fri, 24 Aug 2012 15:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin and Muscogee (Creek) Nation PrincipalChief George Tiger today signed a tobacco compact between the state of Oklahoma and the Creek Nation.  The compact signed today includes the settlement of a lawsuit filed by the Attorney General’s Office regarding the sale of tobacco. The compact will result in payment of $11.5 million and dismissal of litigation by the state and the tribe.  The agreement allows for a five-year term for settlement of payments.

“The state of Oklahoma values the financial, economic and cultural contributions of its Indian tribes,” Fallin said.  “This compact between the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and the state of Oklahoma resolves past disputes and marks a new spirit of partnership between the state and the tribe.

“I want to thank Chief George Tiger for his leadership in resolving past disputes and appreciate the spirit of cooperation exhibited by him and]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8847 Fri, 24 Aug 2012 08:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin was notified today in a letter from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate that assistance for individuals and business owners impacted by recent wildfires in Cleveland, Oklahoma and Payne counties has been denied. The letter (see attachment) states “it has been determined that the damage to the dwellings from wildfires in Cleveland, Oklahoma and Payne counties was not of such severity and magnitude to warrant the designation of Individual Assistance for these counties.” Today’s decision comes on the heels of yesterday’s announcement that Creek County was approved for individual assistance.

“I am extremely disappointed in FEMA’s decision to deny disaster assistance to all Oklahomans who have been tragically impacted by these fires,” said Governor Fallin. “It seems ridiculous to me that houses lost in fires occurring within the same period, on the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8828 Thu, 23 Aug 2012 10:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin announced today that the White House has approved disaster aid for Oklahomans impacted by recent wildfires. The action grants assistance for residents and business owners in Creek County.

Still under consideration in Washington, DC  is the governor's request for the counties of Cleveland, Oklahoma and Payne, which also sustained significant damage and were part of the governor's initial request. Despite the declaration's failure to be inclusive of the governor's complete request, all those who have sustained wildfire damage since July 28 are urged to call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or go online at www.disasterassistance.gov and go ahead and report their damage. This will help bolster the case for additional counties to be added to the declaration.

"I am happy to see the federal government has approved our request for assistance in Creek]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8748 Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Brian Goree to the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals District 6, Office 2.  Goree will replace Judge Carol Hansen, who has resigned.

Goree has practiced law for more than 20 years, focusing on litigation research and writing.  He previously worked as the head of research and writing at Latham, Wagner, Steele and Lehman in Tulsa, a civil defense law firm.  Goree also worked as an associate attorney at Secrest, Hill and Butler. He has been practicing law since 1989.

“With more than 20 years experience in litigation research and writing, Brian Goree brings to the court a great knowledge of the law,” Fallin said.  “I am confident Brian will serve the state well in his new role as a judge on the Court of Civil Appeals.”

Goree is a volunteer with Tulsa Lawyers for Children.  He is a past chairman of the Appellate Practice Section ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8707 Fri, 17 Aug 2012 11:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointments of Pam Kanaly and Karen Waddell to the Commission for Human Services. The Oklahoma Commission for Human Services is a nine-member governing board for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS). Its members are appointed by the governor to staggered nine-year terms, with one membership expiring each August. These appointments fill all current vacancies on the OKDHS Commission.

“The ongoing reforms at the Department of Human Services – including the implementation of the Pinnacle Plan – are essential in our efforts to improve child welfare services,” Fallin said.  “Both Pam Kanaly and Karen Waddell are respected and successful community leaders with a  great deal of experience working with families and children.  I know both are ready for the challenge and committed to serving on the Commission in order to help the agency to better protect and]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8688 Thu, 16 Aug 2012 10:15 -0500
OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin is joining with state and local public health officials to raise awareness of West Nile virus and the steps Oklahomans should take to protect themselves from the mosquito-borne illness.

“West Nile virus is a serious disease that can be life-altering or even fatal,” said Fallin. “Many of our fellow Oklahomans are now hospitalized with West Nile virus. Even though we are early into the season, at least 61 cases and three deaths have been reported in Oklahoma. The best way to prevent West Nile virus is to avoid mosquito bites.”

Fallin urged Oklahomans to “fight the bite” by taking personal precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites, including using insect repellent when going outdoors, installing or repairing screens on windows and doors, and emptying standing water from items outside the home like buckets, cans, flower pots, and tires so mosquitoes have no place to]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8629 Fri, 10 Aug 2012 14:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, Forestry Services Division today announced the agency has distributed more than $3.87 million in operational grant funds to 863 rural fire departments across the state. 

Funded by the Oklahoma Legislature and authorized by Fallin, these grants assist departments located in communities with a population of less than 10,000 people and can be used for a range of needs. 

“With wildfires having devastated huge portions of the state in the last several days, many rural fire departments are low on resources and in need of help,” Fallin said. “These grants will help replace broken equipment and supply firefighters with the resources they need to do their jobs safely. We support our firefighters 100 percent and stand behind them as they work to protect Oklahoma families and communities from the threat of]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8587 Wed, 08 Aug 2012 12:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Representatives from the nation's auto manufacturers, including the Big Three, are in Oklahoma City today to meet with Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and procurement experts to ask questions surrounding a recently issued multistate request for proposal.

The RFP, which comes as a result of a nationwide, bi-partisan effort led by Fallin and Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, asks the nation's auto manufacturers to produce affordable and functional compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles for use in state automobile fleets.

As of today, 22 states have joined the RFP, indicating their intention to purchase CNG vehicles for use in state fleets. 

With 123,000 CNG vehicles in the nation, and 1,000 fueling stations, the governors hope that this new commitment will help overcome the obstacles, including limited infrastructure and consumer demand, which may be holding automakers back from producing a wider variety of CNG]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8588 Tue, 07 Aug 2012 12:45 -0500 By Governor Mary Fallin

            The month of August started like the month of July ended: hot, dry and windy.  In other words, the conditions were perfect for wildfires. 
            Difficult summers, however, are something we’re used to. In response to the weather and in anticipation of wildfires, I placed all 77 counties under a State of Emergency due to drought. When dozens of fires broke out across the state, Oklahomans were prepared.
            Because of the statewide emergency declaration, state and local governments were able to make emergency purchases and immediately begin protecting their communities. And although they couldn’t stop the fires that spread across the state– especially those that may have been started maliciously and intentionally]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8547 Mon, 06 Aug 2012 08:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today requested that Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector Gary Jones conduct an operational audit of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA).  The request (see attached letter) comes following the announced resignation of ODVA Executive Director Martha Spear. It is Governor Fallin’s policy to request an audit following the resignation of an agency head in order to help the transition to new leadership and to highlight possible areas of improvement.

Fallin’s letter asks the state auditor to:
• Review the efficiency and effectiveness of management
• Review the efficiency and effectiveness of the oversight of the operations of Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs
• Review the reasonableness of the expenditures of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs
• Review the expenditures of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8548 Mon, 06 Aug 2012 08:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – With almost 80,000 acres in Oklahoma burned by wildfires and hundreds of Oklahomans displaced from their homes, Governor Mary Fallin is urging those who wish to aid in relief efforts to make donations to the Red Cross and the Salvation Army. Both organizations are active in disaster relief and are providing assistance to first responders and wildfire victims in Oklahoma.

“In the past few days, countless Oklahomans have reached out to my office to ask how they can help first responders and those who have lost their homes to wildfires,” Fallin said. “While there are many opportunities to offer assistance, two of the most reliable and effective aid groups continue to be the Salvation Army and the Red Cross.”

“As I’ve travelled across the state, I’ve seen their volunteers handing out water and food to firefighters and helping families in need. For those Oklahomans who want to offer their assistance ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8507 Fri, 03 Aug 2012 10:45 -0500 Oklahoma City - As drought conditions continue to worsen across Oklahoma, Governor Mary Fallin has announced that a ban on outdoor burning for all 77 Oklahoma counties is effective immediately.

Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, recommended the ban based upon an analysis of fire activity, wild land fuel conditions and the predicted continued drought. The governor's statewide burn ban supersedes all county burn bans currently in place and remains in place until conditions improve and it is removed by the governor.

"Extreme heat and ongoing drought have created conditions very conducive to wildfires," Fallin said. "A statewide burn ban is now necessary to reduce the risk of preventable wildfires and to protect lives and property.

"Moving forward, we need the public to be extremely vigilant. Lit cigarettes, flat tires and cars parked in dry grass can quickly]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8428 Mon, 30 Jul 2012 16:00 -0500
Board of Health

Tim Starkey of Alva is the chief executive officer at Great Salt Plains Health Center in Cherokee. Prior to that, he served as CEO of Memorial Hospital of Texas County in Guymon.  He is president of the Oklahoma Primary Care Association. Starkey received a bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma Panhandle State University and a master’s in business administration with an emphasis in health care management from the University of Phoenix.  He is replacing Alfred Baldwin, Jr. and will serve in position 4 on the board.

Board of Pharmacy

Jim Spoon of Sand Springs is a pharmacist and owner of Spoon Drug in Sand Springs and T Roy Barnes Drugry in Tulsa. He is a past president of the Oklahoma Pharmacists Association, a board member of the Pharmacy Providers of Oklahoma and a committee member of the National Association of Community]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8427 Mon, 30 Jul 2012 15:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today declared a State of Emergency for all 77 Oklahoma counties due to extreme or exceptional drought conditions.

“Extreme heat and dry conditions continue to affect the entire state,” Fallin said. “My administration will be ready to help provide whatever aid and assistance it can as Oklahoma communities work to cope with this drought.”

The Executive Order allows state agencies to make emergency purchases related to disaster relief and preparedness. It is also a first step toward seeking federal assistance should it be necessary.

Under the executive order, the state of emergency lasts for 30 days. It can be amended at a later time based on conditions on the ground.

Click here to see a copy of the executive order.

Due to drought, 47 Oklahoma counties have declared countywide burn bans. http://www.ok.gov/governor/8388 Wed, 25 Jul 2012 14:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Mary Fallin today released the following statement after the Department of Human Services (DHS)received endorsement today from child welfare experts on the Pinnacle Plan, an improvement plan for the state’s child welfare system: 

“The approval of the Pinnacle Plan is a big step forward for the state and for DHS as it works to strengthen child welfare services. My thanks go out to DHS employees and the co-neutrals for their hard work and cooperation, as well as Oklahoma legislators for making the necessary financial commitment to support these important reforms. Moving forward, DHS will continue to have my support and assistance as it works to implement the Pinnacle Plan. The success of these reforms is critical to ensuring the state can provide adequate protection and care to vulnerable Oklahoma children.”

TULSA – State officials remain engaged with American Airlines officials as the company works its way through bankruptcy, Gov. Mary Fallin said on Tuesday.
 
Fallin delivered an informal State of the State address to more than 800 people in downtown Tulsa for the Tulsa Metro Chamber.
 
“We remain in contact with American Airlines,” said Fallin, who met with reporters afterward. “We want to help American in any way we can. We want American to be successful and keep as many jobs in Tulsa and Oklahoma as possible.”
 
State officials are examining areas in which the airline might be eligible for incentives, she said.
 
This month, two union work groups with the Transport Workers Union Local 14 reached agreements on proposed contracts with American Airlines. The contracts with]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8367 Tue, 24 Jul 2012 10:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Mary Fallin today announced the appointment ofTim Henderson to the seventh Judicial District Office of Oklahoma County. He is replacing Judge Daniel Owens, who resigned.

Henderson of Edmond is a partner at Huddleston, Piker, Henderson and Parker, a law firm dealing in civil and criminal defense litigation, employment law, family law, insurance settlement, personal injury, probate and estate law and workers compensation. He was an associate at Holloway Dobson and Bachman law firm from 1994 to 1996.  Henderson also served in various roles, including assistant district attorney, in the district attorney’s office in Oklahoma County from 1986 to 1994.  Prior to that, he served as a police officer for the Edmond Police Department from 1981 to 1986.

“Mr. Henderson’s background as both a police officer and an attorney makes him well qualified for this new role,” Fallin said. “He will do an excellent ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8328 Fri, 20 Jul 2012 14:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Mary Fallin commented today on the latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) that showed Oklahoma’s unemployment rate has dropped yet again.  For June, the unemployment rate was 4.7 percent, 0.1 percentage points lower than May and 1.4 percentage points lower than June 2011.  Nationally, the unemployment rate is 8.2 percent. 

Jobless rates were lower in 11 states (including Oklahoma), higher in 27 states, while 12 states saw no change, according to the BLS.  Click here for more information from the BLS. 

“Oklahoma’s low unemployment rate continues to outpace the national unemployment rate and is proof our pro-business policies are succeeding in creating a positive business environment for job creation and investment,” Fallin said. “Moving forward, we must maintain our]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8267 Fri, 13 Jul 2012 11:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin, Oklahoma Secretary of Energy Michael Ming, and Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce Dave Lopez will visit Detroit on Monday to pitch a multi-state, bi-partisan compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicle initiative to U.S. auto manufacturers.

In April, Gov. Fallin and the governors of 12 other states sent letters to auto makers in the United States expressing their commitment to explore ways to purchase more CNG vehicles for their state fleets.  The move is both a cost-saving measure for states and a means to incentivize the manufacture of affordable and functional CNG vehicles.  The letter referred to a multi-state Request for Information (RFI), asking manufacturers to provide background and information in anticipation of a multi-state solicitation later this summer.  Participating states]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8228 Wed, 11 Jul 2012 10:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Wes Lane as chairman of the Department of Human Services Commission. 

The governor appointed Lane to the DHS Commission in September and since then he has served as chairman of a DHS Commission special subcommittee to review cases of child abuse and neglect.

“Since his appointment to the DHS Commission, Wes Lane has proven himself a dedicated advocate for Oklahoma’s children and our most vulnerable citizens,” Fallin said.  “In his new role as chairman of the DHS Commission, I expect Wes to continue to work toward implementing reforms at DHS – including the Pinnacle Plan to improve the child protection system – that will help improve the agency and the services it provides.”

Lane is president of the Burbridge Foundation, a foundation dedicated to solving problems that impact families. He served for 21 years in the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8209 Tue, 10 Jul 2012 13:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Jacque Secondine Hensley of Tulsa as Native American liaison within the governor’s office.  In 2011, legislation eliminated the Oklahoma Indian Affairs Commission and established the executive branch position of Native American liaison.

The Native American liaison serves as an advisor to the governor on Native American affairs with areas of responsibility as designated by the governor including monitoring compacts between Oklahoma and tribal governments, monitoring consultations and interactions between state agencies and tribal governments, as well as continuing the outreach between the governor’s office and tribal governments.

“Oklahoma’s tribes have a valuable and unique impact on Oklahoma’s economy and our culture,” Fallin said.  “My administration has always worked closely with Oklahoma’s tribes and will continue to do ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8207 Tue, 10 Jul 2012 09:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Gov. Mary Fallin will join governors from around the nation in Williamsburg, Virginia for the annual National Governors Association (NGA) meeting from July 12-15.  Gov. Fallin serves on the executive committee of the NGA.

The NGA meetings will feature sessions on topics like health care, economic development, education and workforce as well as public safety, veterans’ affairs and homeland security.  Throughout the meeting, governors will attend “Governors-Only” sessions, which provide an opportunity to discuss issues states are facing in a private, off-the-record setting.

“Economic growth and job creation are important priorities for the nation’s governors. Attending the NGA meetings offers me the chance to highlight the legislative successes in Oklahoma that are helping us create jobs and bring in new investment,” Fallin said. “These meetings also offer a chance to discuss]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8189 Mon, 09 Jul 2012 13:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointment of Megan Simpson as an Associate District Judge in Harper County.  She is replacing Judge G. Wayne Olmstead, who resigned.

Simpson of Clinton is currently the assistant district attorney in Custer County and previously had the same position in Texas County. She has experience with felony jury trials, including first-degree murder cases. Simpson has been practicing law since 1995 where she was in private practice. She also served as a contract attorney for the Oklahoma Indigent Defense System, covering all indigent defense services for Woodward and Ellis counties. Simpson has tried approximately 65 criminal cases in her career.

“Megan’s experience in civil litigation, criminal defense and prosecution will help her immensely in the new role of associate district judge,” Fallin said. “I am confident she will serve the state well during her time on the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8187 Mon, 09 Jul 2012 09:30 -0500 Belgian Aerospace Component Manufacturer Announces New Production Facility in Stillwater, OK

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and Secretary Dave Lopez of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, announced that Belgium-based Asco Incorporated will be opening a new U.S. production facility in Stillwater, Oklahoma.

Asco is a technology specialist and world-class provider of supply chain integration in design, development, precision machining, processing, and certified assembly of complex high strength metallic aircraft components. Asco specializes in lift devices, mechanical assemblies and major functional components for the aerospace industry.

“Oklahoma was the best location for our facility, said Christian Boas, CEO Asco Group. “ The state is centrally located in North America and has an existing aerospace industry which is thriving. Oklahoma has a highly skilled workforce which specializes in our industry and the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8110 Mon, 02 Jul 2012 14:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and Oklahoma Science and Technology Secretary Stephen McKeever will lead a delegation of seven Oklahoma Aerospace companies to the Farnborough International Air Show, taking place in Farnborough, UK, July 9-13, 2012. (Governor Fallin will attend the air show on July 9 and July 10.) Officials from the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, the Tulsa Metro Chamber and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) will also attend.

The Farnborough International Airshow is one of the largest aviation events in the world. The show is estimated to attract more than 130,000 visitors, and will be attended by approximately 70 trade delegations from more than 40 different countries. An estimated $47 billion in business orders are expected to be announced during the event. 

The companies exhibiting in the Oklahoma booth are SW United Industries (Tulsa), M&M Manufacturing (Tulsa), Enviro Systems (Seminole), Pro-Fab]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8050 Thu, 28 Jun 2012 15:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today joined officials from the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T) and the Oklahoma National Guard in announcing that Oklahoma has been chosen as the test site for the DHS Robotic Aircraft for Public Safety (RAPS) Program. The program will research and test Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (SUAS), focusing on possible applications for first responders, including search and rescue scenarios, response to radiological and chemical incidents and fire response and mapping. 

Work is expected to begin this fall at Oklahoma State University’s Multispectral Lab (UML) test site near Lawton, Oklahoma. The program will be operated by UML and takes advantage of the restricted airspace around Fort Sill, a U.S. military base also near Lawton. The Oklahoma National Guard will be a key partner with both DHS S&T and the UML as the RAPS program develops.  

RAPS is]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/8047 Thu, 28 Jun 2012 10:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act:

“Oklahomans have voiced their opposition to the federal health care bill from the very beginning, having approved a constitutional amendment to block the implementation of this bill in our state. We believe that, rather than Big Government bureaucracy and one-size-fits-all solutions, the free-market principles of choice and competition are the best tools at our disposal to increase access to health care and reduce costs.

“I’m extremely disappointed and frustrated by the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the federal health care law.  President Obama’s  health care policies will limit patients’ health care choices, reduce the quality of health care in the United States, and will cost the state of Oklahoma approximately a half]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7967 Thu, 21 Jun 2012 08:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin and members of her cabinet joined emergency management and homeland security representatives yesterday to discuss Oklahoma’s capability to plan for, prevent, respond to and recover from catastrophic events.

The event was designed specifically for state government leaders, featuring scenario-based roundtable discussions tailored to include all facets of state government. It also emphasized the state’s ability to manage hazards and the importance of continuing essential services during and after a large-scale disaster.

“We do an exceptional job with emergency management in Oklahoma, but this was an opportunity for the state’s top officials to re-examine our existing protocols and procedures while also anticipating the potential challenges a catastrophic disaster may bring,” Fallin said.

The training event included discussions on critical pre-disaster planning, use of the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7907 Fri, 15 Jun 2012 11:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Fallin today announced appointments to the board of regents for Redlands Community College, Oklahoma City Community College, Tulsa Community College, Oklahoma State University-Tulsa, Seminole State College, Northern Oklahoma College, Western Oklahoma State College, Carl Albert State College, Murray State College and Eastern Oklahoma State College.  The governor also announced appointments to the board of the Regional University System of Oklahoma, the board of Langston University-Oklahoma City and Langston University-Tulsa, and the board for the McCurtain County Higher Education Program.  The appointments all were confirmed by the state Senate during the 2012 legislative session.

Board of Regents for Redlands Community College

Jim Kitch of Yukon owns Oklahoma Tag of Yukon. He is the current president of the Oklahoma Tag Agent Group.  Kitch previously served as mayor and on the Yukon City]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7868 Thu, 14 Jun 2012 10:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Fallin today announced appointments to the State Board of Corrections, the Judicial Nominating Commission, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation Commission, the Crime Victims Compensation Board and the Oklahoma Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors.  The appointments were confirmed by the state Senate during the 2012 legislative session.

State Board of Corrections

Kevin J. Gross of Tulsa is president and chief executive officer of the Hillcrest Healthcare System in Oklahoma. He is a member of the Board of Directors for the Tulsa Metro Chamber of Commerce and is a board member for the Oklahoma Hospital Association. Gross earned a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University and a master’s of business administration from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He is replacing Robert Rainey and will serve as an at-large member of the board.

CALGARY -- Oklahoma's governor directed a blast at U.S. President Barack Obama Tuesday for holding up a Keystone XL Pipeline she argues will greatly benefit her state.

During a two-day visit to the Global Petroleum Show, Republican Mary Fallin said the president is ignoring the importance of the oil industry to the U.S. and states like hers.

"The president doesn't understand the magnitude of the energy sector and how it can generate strength in the economy," Fallin said during a visit to the Oklahoma government pavilion on the Calgary Stampede grounds.

Obama has turned down approval of the pipeline's leg between the Canadian border and a terminus at Cushing, in northeastern Oklahoma, argely over environmental concerns.

But he's given the green light to its southern leg, between Oklahoma and the Gulf Coast, whose refineries would receive Alberta crude]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7845 Wed, 13 Jun 2012 09:00 -0500 By Jay F. Marks, Oklahoman

CONKLIN, Alberta — Gov. Mary Fallin has only been in Canada for a couple of days, but she's already noticed many similarities between her state and the province of Alberta.

Oklahoma and Alberta are home to about the same number of people, with economies stronger than the rest of their countries and a wealth of natural resources, including abundant oil and natural gas reserves, she said.

Fallin, who will speak Wednesday at the Global Petroleum Show in Calgary, spent much of Monday touring Alberta's oil sands. The trip included a visit to Oklahoma City-based Devon Energy Corp.'s Jackfish operation.

She said the trip helped her understand the connection between Oklahoma and Canada, with state companies lending their expertise to the development of a massive resource base in Alberta.

“It all comes back to benefit Oklahoma,” the governor said, pointing to figures from the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7846 Wed, 13 Jun 2012 09:00 -0500 By CBC News

Roughly 60,000 delegates from around the world have come to Calgary for the the Global Petroleum Show.

On Tuesday night, several hundred people attended a reception where Premier Alison Redford made a quick speech.

"I'll say to some of our international visitors that as part of a stable democratic nation that values free enterprise and economic protection we believe that Alberta has successfully used innovation and technology to build our province and to build our energy sector," she said.

As much of the crowd continued to chat and visit, Redford talked about how energy has been key to economic development in Alberta and the rest of Canada. She says the energy sector can be relied upon to build a strong and stable economy.

The premier says Alberta has always welcomed innovators and investment.

"We know that this show that allows people to connect to each other here in Alberta, across ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7806 Thu, 07 Jun 2012 16:30 -0500 Boeing Bringing More than 1,000 Jobs to Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today joined officials with The Boeing Company to open the company’s new Oklahoma City facility.  The newest facility will be home to Boeing’s avionics modernization programs for the B-1 and C-130 aircraft, as well as the B-52, E-4B, E-6, C-32 and C-40.  Additionally, Boeing is bringing more than 1,000 new jobs to the Oklahoma City facility.

“The opening of the new Boeing facility and the addition of more than 1,000 new jobs in Oklahoma City will be a great boost for the local and state economy,” Fallin said.  “We’re confident the new facility will be a great success, and will continue the long and successful relationship between the state of Oklahoma and the Boeing Company.” 

“Oklahoma appreciates the aerospace industry and its hardworking employees.  At the Capitol,]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7745 Wed, 06 Jun 2012 11:00 -0500 Trade Mission will Help Drive Foreign Direct Investment to Oklahoma and Create Jobs

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin, along with Oklahoma Energy Secretary Michael Ming, will lead a delegation of eight Oklahoma oil and gas companies to the Global Petroleum Show (GPS), taking place in Calgary, Canada, June 12-13, 2012. Officials from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (ODOC) will also attend.

The Oklahoma companies exhibiting at GPS in Oklahoma’s booth are Everest Sciences, Pipeline Equipment and Kline Tools, from Tulsa; Double Life and Pro-Formance Manufacturing, from Oklahoma City; Continental Wire, from Jenks; King Oil Tools, from Enid; and TechTrol, from Pawnee.

Governor Fallin will also tour the oil sands and Devon’s Jackfish projects.  She will speak to industry leaders including CEOs of major energy companies about the proposed Keystone pipeline expansion that would extend from Cushing, Oklahoma]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7685 Wed, 30 May 2012 17:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY—Governor Mary Fallin today accepted the resignations of Commissioners Steven Dow and Anne Roberts of the Oklahoma Commission for Human Services.

The resignations were offered after a letter by the Oklahoma Ethics Commission identified a conflict of interest concerning Dow’s simultaneous service as both a DHS commissioner and chief executive officer of the Community Action Project, a charitable corporation which operates daycare and child education facilities. Roberts, although not named in the Ethics Commission letter, resigned to address a potential conflict between her service as a commissioner and her employment with Integris Heath.

Governor Fallin said she valued the service of both Dow and Roberts.

“Both Steven Dow and Anne Roberts are dedicated public servants who have poured countless hours into their roles at the Department of Human Services.” Fallin said. “Their work on the Pinnacle Plan, for]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7666 Wed, 30 May 2012 14:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today declared a State of Emergency for 35 Oklahoma counties due to straight line winds, hail, flooding and tornadoes that began Tuesday.

The counties included in the declaration are: Alfalfa, Blaine, Bryan, Caddo, Canadian, Cleveland, Comanche, Cotton, Creek, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield, Garvin, Grady, Grant, Harper, Kingfisher, Kiowa, Latimer, Lincoln, Logan, Love, Major, McClain, Oklahoma, Okmulgee, Pittsburg, Pottawatomie, Stephens, Tillman, Tulsa, Washita, Woods, and Woodward.

The declaration can be amended to add additional counties if conditions warrant.

The severe storms that came through the state last night and into this morning have resulted in damage to homes, businesses and vehicles as well as numerous power outages. Damage assessments in these counties are ongoing and additional severe weather is expected for later today.

Under the Executive Order,]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7647 Tue, 29 May 2012 14:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law a measure that alters the oversight of commercial pet breeders in the state of Oklahoma.  House Bill 2921 abolishes the Commercial Pet Breeders Board and transfers the board’s responsibilities to the state Department of Agriculture.  The legislation would apply to breeders who have 11 or more female cats or dogs capable of reproducing.

“By transferring oversight responsibilities to the state Department of Agriculture, this legislation will ensure the humane treatment of animals while also providing fair treatment and regulation of commercial pet breeders in Oklahoma,” Fallin said. “It also allows us to continue to reduce the size of our state government without reducing the quality of services or oversight we are providing. My thanks go out to the Legislature for sending this bill to my desk.”  

The bill was sponsored by Rep. Phil Richardson]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7645 Tue, 29 May 2012 13:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Fallin today signed into law House Bill 2563, a measure that modifies the qualifications for the position of the newly created Native American liaison. 

In the 2011 legislative session, the Oklahoma Indian Affairs Commission was eliminated and the executive branch position of Native American liaison was created.  The governor’s office agreed with the intent of that legislation, but after it was signed into law raised legal and policy questions.

House Bill 2563, sponsored by Rep. Paul Wesselhoft and Sen. Josh Brecheen, modifies the qualifications of the position of Native American liaison to address concerns raised by the governor’s office.

The bill removes language requiring the liaison be an American Indian of at least one-fourth blood and instead calls for the liaison to be a member or citizen, with valid proof of membership or citizenship, of a federally recognized American Indian tribe or]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7626 Fri, 25 May 2012 17:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – As Oklahomans remember the men and women who served and are serving the nation’s Armed Forces this Memorial Day weekend, Governor Fallin praised efforts at the state Capitol this year to support veterans, military personnel and their families.

“This Memorial Day weekend, I encourage all Oklahomans to take time to remember and honor the sacrifices of the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.  Their service keeps our nation free and protects the freedoms we enjoy every day,” Fallin said.  “Oklahomans have a deep and profound respect for the men and women of our military – and their families.  We can never fully repay the debt of gratitude owed to them, but we can continue to pursue policies that recognize and honor their service.”

Today, Governor Fallin today signed into two measures aimed at assisting military veterans, personnel and their families.

House Bill 2689, by Rep. ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7625 Fri, 25 May 2012 17:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Today marks the last day of the 2012 legislative session in Oklahoma. Governor Mary Fallin worked with the Legislature this year to deliver a fiscally conservative, balanced budget that includes targeted increases for core services. Additionally, she worked with lawmakers to pass and sign into law key reforms in the areas of government efficiency, energy production, health and human services, transportation, child welfare, gun rights, education and more.

“My priority continues to be the creation of more and better jobs in Oklahoma, as well as the delivery of a more cost-efficient and effective state government,” Fallin said. “The many reforms passed and signed into law this year will continue to build our state’s forward momentum. Whether it’s improving public safety, fixing our roads and bridges, boosting education or raising our health outcomes and indicators, the successes of this session will help to make]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7585 Thu, 24 May 2012 14:00 -0500 Signs Legislation Creating State Policy to Respond to Blue-Green Algae Outbreaks

OKLAHOMA CITY – As Oklahomans gear up for Memorial Day, Governor Mary Fallin says the state’s lakes are great places to enjoy the holiday weekend.  Like thousands of other Oklahomans, Governor Fallin and her family plan to enjoy time at the lake this weekend.

“Going to the lake for the Memorial Day holiday is a tradition for many Oklahomans.  Picnics, watermelon, homemade ice cream and fun in the sun all mark the beginning of summer,” Fallin said.  “I want to encourage Oklahomans to have fun and enjoy themselves at state parks and lakes but remember to be safe and observe the proper rules and guidelines for boating and lake safety.”

Last year, Oklahoma’s summer season at the lakes was marred by outbreaks of toxic blue-green algae.  In response, the governor signed into law today (Thursday, May 24) ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7567 Tue, 22 May 2012 15:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin today urged state legislators to quickly approve an income tax cut, citing the need to remain competitive with Kansas, the state’s neighbor to the north. Earlier today Kansas Governor Sam Brownback signed into law a tax cut bill to reduce Kansas’ top income tax bracket to 4.9 percent.

Oklahoma’s top income tax bracket remains at 5.25 percent, although Governor Fallin and state legislative leaders have agreed to a tax cut deal to lower the top income bracket. Under the new plan, Oklahoma would experience an income tax reduction in two-stages, eventually seeing its top bracket reduced to 4.5 percent. The plan would first lower the rate to 4.8 percent in Fiscal Year 2013 before lowering that rate further to 4.5 percent in 2015, provided the state’s tax revenues grow by 5]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7565 Tue, 22 May 2012 09:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Fallin on Monday signed into law the Water for 2060 Act, the most comprehensive, ambitious statewide water conservation measure in the United States.  The bill, House Bill 3055, establishes a statewide goal of consuming no more fresh water in 2060 than is consumed currently in the state.  The bill also creates an advisory council that will develop a strategy for achieving the statewide goal, as well as recommendations on more efficient use of existing water supplies, identification of new water supplies and more efficient infrastructure.

According to the 2012 update to the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan, localized shortages and groundwater depletions could become more prevalent in the next 50 years in more than half of the state’s watersheds.

HB 3055, authored by Speaker Kris Steele, places the focus on preserving fresh water through conservation while also looking toward expanding the use of alternative]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7545 Mon, 21 May 2012 18:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin and leaders in the Oklahoma House and Senate today came to a budget agreement that includes targeted funding increases for core services. Fallin and other state leaders said the proposed $6.8 billion budget was a fiscally conservative roadmap for the state that controls spending while allowing for improvements to be made in health and human services, public safety, transportation, education and other important areas of government. 

“This budget deal is a responsible, fiscally conservative agreement that appropriately funds core government services,” Fallin said. “The targeted increases we are pursuing will help to improve child welfare services, repair structurally deficient bridges, increase access to health care in rural areas, and boost resources for public safety. Additionally, this budget agreement will also ensure the state supports common education and keeps its promise to teachers by funding]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7506 Fri, 18 May 2012 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the nomination of nine appointees who will make up the new War Veterans Commission if confirmed by the Oklahoma State Senate. The governor nominated Wes Benge, Robert Keister, Don Wadley, Dr. Curtis Bohlman, Tommy Howell, Darrell McGee, Rich Putnam, Jerry G. Riley and Tommy Sellers to the War Veterans Commission. 

The War Veterans Commission is the controlling board of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA).   It administers veterans programs in Oklahoma through a director appointed by and responsible to the commission.  It is composed of nine members appointed by the governor from lists of names submitted by the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Disabled American Veterans.  Four members are selected from a list provided by the American Legion, three from the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and two from the Disabled American Veterans. Additionally, three members of]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7487 Fri, 18 May 2012 09:30 -0500 By Michael McNutt, Oklahoman

An agreement to cut the state's top personal income tax rate of 5.25 percent down to 4.8 percent next year was announced Thursday evening by GOP legislative leaders and Gov. Mary Fallin.

The plan, reached after two weeks of intense negotiations, also includes a one-time additional tax cut tied to a revenue growth trigger in the 2015 fiscal year.

If state revenue grows by at least 5 percent in that year, the income tax rate would be reduced further to 4.5 percent effective Jan. 1, 2015, but if revenue doesn't grow by that amount, the tax rate would not change. The 5 percent trigger is based on the growth of personal income, sales, use, motor vehicle and corporate tax collections.

The deal was announced after a day of meetings, including the governor talking to the GOP House caucus. Senate Republicans at first didn't embrace the plan, but about noon asked to resume talks. The talks continued until ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7485 Fri, 18 May 2012 09:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahomans will soon be saving more money in their paychecks.

The details of a last-minute deal between Gov. Mary Fallin and top lawmakers to slash income taxes were released Thursday evening.

All taypayers will get a break. Right now, the top tax rate is 5.25 percent. Next year, that will drop to 4.8 percent. Fallin says cutting taxes will help Oklahoma families recover from the recession and attract more business.

"It's also about Oklahomans' long term economic growth. We can make Oklahoma be more competitive as a state," said Fallin.

Legislatures now have to work quickly to pass the deal. The last day of the legislative session is next Friday.

The joint proposal represents a tax cut of over $218 million to Oklahomans when fully implemented in FY 2014, and would cut taxes by an additional $121.4 million in FY 2015 should the growth trigger be reached. Lost revenue is partially offset by tax reforms totaling $117 million when fully implemented in FY 2014. These reforms include the elimination of 33 tax credits, the elimination of certain deductions and the elimination of the personal exemption for single filers making over $35,000 and joint filers making]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7445 Wed, 16 May 2012 15:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law House Bill 2388, requiring the state Department of Human Services to screen adults for drug-use who apply to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. 

If the applicant refuses a drug test or is found to be using drugs, they would be denied benefits.

Applicants who test positive for illegal drug use and undergo substance abuse treatment can reapply for benefits six months after the date of their denial.  Child-only cases and underage parents would be exempt from drug screenings.  The bill also allows for an alternative payee to be named when a parent has been denied benefits.

“House Bill 2388 will help ensure welfare checks are not being used to pay for drugs,” Fallin said. “Hard working taxpayers shouldn’t be asked to subsidize drug abuse, and this bill will help to ensure they are not.”

“Additionally, HB 2388 ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7425 Tue, 15 May 2012 13:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law Senate Bill 1733, a measure that allows Oklahoma citizens to openly carry firearms.  The bill permits those who are licensed, or already have been licensed, to carry a firearm under the Oklahoma Self Defense Act to openly carry a weapon or conceal it.  It also allows property owners to openly carry a firearm on their property without a concealed carry permit for the purpose of self defense.

To receive a license under the Oklahoma Self Defense Act, applicants must take a firearms safety and training course and submit to a background check by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.  Those convicted of felonies and certain misdemeanors may not receive a handgun license.

With Governor Fallin’s signature on SB 1733, Oklahoma becomes the 25th state with either “permissive open carry” laws (no permit required) or “licensed open carry” (permit]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7385 Thu, 10 May 2012 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – The statewide public safety plan developed through Oklahoma’s Justice Reinvestment Initiative has been signed into law by Gov. Mary Fallin.

“Increasing public safety is a top priority of my administration and a primary function of state government. The reforms in HB 3052 will help to reduce crime and ensure our streets are safer for Oklahoma families,” Fallin said. “In addition to lowering crime rates, reducing the incarceration rate and giving law enforcement more resources to fight crime, this bill will help us to save taxpayer dollars by helping our corrections system operate in a more efficient and effective way.”

Criminal justice stakeholders from across the state stood in support Thursday as Fallin ceremoniously signed House Bill 3052. The bill, authored by House Speaker Kris Steele and Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman, was formally signed Wednesday.

“Today ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7365 Wed, 09 May 2012 09:30 -0500 BY MICHAEL MCNUTT, The Oklahoman

A bill signed into law Tuesday kicks off an energy conservation program for state agencies and educational institutions estimated to save the state as much as $500 million over the next 10 years.

Senate Bill 1096, called the Oklahoma State Facilities Energy Conservation Program, directs all state agencies and higher education institutions to achieve an energy efficiency and conservation improvement target of at least 20 percent by the year 2020. The measure takes effect in late August.

Fallin said the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, a nonprofit group interested in advancing energy policies, has ranked Oklahoma as the fourth-worst state in the nation as it relates to energy conservation and energy efficiencies.

“That's not acceptable,” Fallin said. “We can do better ... and today marks that new day that we are going to do better.

“Not only have we]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7348 Tue, 08 May 2012 16:15 -0500
OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Fallin today signed into law Senate Bill 1797, a measure that consolidates existing teacher accountability and preparation entities into a single Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (EQA) in order to save taxpayer money while streamlining existing education accountability initiatives.  The initiative was among Governor Fallin’s 2012 legislative agenda items.

Under SB 1797, the existing Office of Accountability, now under the direction of the Oklahoma State Regents of Higher Education, will be combined with the Teacher Preparation Commission to form the EQA office.  Functions of the Teacher Preparation Commission will be managed by the EQA office.  The measure also restructures the Education Oversight Board and renames it the Commission for Education, Instruction Quality and Accountability.  The secretary of education will serve as chair of the commission and oversee the EQA office.

]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7347 Tue, 08 May 2012 16:00 -0500 Goal for Agencies, Higher Education is 20 Percent Improvement by 2020

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Fallin today signed into law Senate Bill 1096, a bill that directs all state agencies and higher education institutions to achieve at least 20 percent improvement in energy efficiency and conservation by the year 2020.  The governor first outlined the initiative in her Oklahoma First Energy Plan and asked the Legislature this year in her State of the State address to write the plan into law.

“Senate Bill 1096 outlines several common sense energy conservation policies for state agencies and higher education institutions that will save taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars,” Fallin said.  “My goal has always been to deliver a government that is smaller, smarter and more cost efficient.  By pursuing these energy conservation reforms, we will be able to do just that.”

http://www.ok.gov/governor/7345 Tue, 08 May 2012 12:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Fallin today signed into law SB 1863, a bill that will help veterans translate their military experience and skills into academic credits and credit for workforce training. 

“We owe our gratitude to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces for their service and sacrifice.  The men and women in our military, as well as all of our veterans, possess some of the most unique skill sets in the world,” Fallin said.  “The Post-Military Service Occupation, Education and Credentialing Act will give veterans credit for the experience they gained in service of the country and provide them the help they deserve to find jobs and re-enter the workforce once their service is complete.”

SB 1863 would allow Oklahoma colleges, university and technology centers to provide academic credit to a military veteran, who was honorably discharged in the previous three years, for any applicable education, training]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7325 Mon, 07 May 2012 16:00 -0500 By Gov. Mary Fallin

As many other states struggle to recover from the current recession, Oklahoma continues to build on its forward momentum.  The latest evidence of the positive trend in Oklahoma’s economy comes in the form of a national survey of small business owners by the Kauffman Foundation, an organization that promotes entrepreneurship, and Thumbtack.com, a national network of small business owners.

In the survey of more than 275,000 small business owners, Oklahoma ranked as the third-best state in the nation for small business creation, receiving an A or A+ for things like ease of starting a small business, cost of hiring a new employee, friendliness of regulations and tax code. In fact, Oklahoma City was the number one city for overall small business friendliness in the country and Oklahoma was in the top 10 for nearly every category and the top 20 for every positive]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7247 Wed, 02 May 2012 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY— Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement on Senate Bill 1096, directing all state agencies and higher education institutions to achieve an energy efficiency and conservation improvement target of at least 20 percent by the year 2020.  The governor outlined a proposal for such an initiative in her Oklahoma First Energy Plan and asked the Legislature to write the plan into law in her State of the State address earlier this year. Estimates indicate that savings to the state could range from $300 to $500 million over 10 years.

“This energy efficiency bill is a central component of our agenda to make Oklahoma’s state government smaller, smarter and more cost efficient, and I applaud the Legislature for sending it to my desk.

“Senate Bill 1096 has the potential to save hundreds]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7245 Wed, 02 May 2012 11:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today approved rules submitted by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (SDE) establishing an A-F report card system to grade school performance. The rules were adopted by the State Board of Education in March, based on a law (HB 1456) enacted by the Legislature and signed by Governor Fallin in 2011.

Fallin said the law, as well as the rules submitted by the SDE, are part of a comprehensive effort to improve performance and accountability measures at public schools.

“Nothing is more important to the future of this state than improving our schools,” Fallin said. “Job growth and prosperity are directly linked to workforce quality and educational achievement. All of those things require high-quality educational institutions at every level.”

“To ensure that we are providing quality schools that are serving our children well and to identify those instances where we are not,]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7225 Tue, 01 May 2012 16:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY -- Governor Mary Fallin has partnered with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) to encourage more Oklahomans to become foster and adoptive parents.

Fallin issued a proclamation recognizing May as Foster Care Awareness Month in Oklahoma and she is serving as spokesperson for the statewide OKDHS public service announcement (PSA) campaign. Fallin appears in a PSA urging Oklahomans to get involved and "change a child's lifetime."

More than 8,000 children and youth are currently in foster care and there is an urgent need for foster and adoptive families, especially for teenagers, sibling groups and children who have special medical or physical needs. For those who may not be able to foster children, there are other ways to get involved such as volunteering at a local children's shelter, hosting a toy drive, or becoming a trained volunteer to assist with home studies.

The PSA will be broadcast on commercial]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7205 Tue, 01 May 2012 08:45 -0500 Oklahoma's governor and 12 other governors write to nearly 20 auto manufacturers asking them to produce more affordable compressed natural gas vehicles.

By Michael McNutt, Oklahoman

Gov. Mary Fallin, joined by 12 other governors, asked nearly 20 auto manufacturers Monday to produce more affordable compressed natural gas vehicles for state fleets that would be available for the average car buyer, too.

The nonpartisan effort, first announced last fall by Fallin and Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, also would increase the demand for natural gas and likely reverse plummeting natural gas prices, which would aid energy-rich states such as Oklahoma.

Natural gas producers pay a state tax on their production so new markets should help the state's coffers and make it more of a reliable revenue stream.

“Despite their potential as a much more affordable form of transportation, CNG vehicles continue to be held back ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7185 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement regarding the urgent need for Oklahoma lawmakers to pass and sign into law a significant reduction in the state income tax:

“Oklahoma families need and deserve a significant income tax reduction. Cutting taxes will not only allow our citizens to keep more of their hard earned money, it will also make Oklahoma a more competitive state to do business in and will help to create more and better jobs. Pursuing income tax cuts and tax simplification continue to be a priority of mine as I work with lawmakers to enact policies that will help to grow Oklahoma’s economy.

“Earlier this year, I proposed the ‘Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act,’ a bold plan to dramatically cut taxes, reduce the total number of tax brackets from seven to three, and set the stage for the gradual elimination of the income tax. That plan is one of several tax-cut plans]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7165 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 11:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today joined governors from 13 states in inviting auto manufacturers in the United States to partner in making more affordable Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles available to both state automobile fleets and private sector consumers.

In a letter to auto manufacturers delivered today (see attachment), the 13 governors reinforced their commitment to purchasing CNG vehicles for their state fleets, both as a cost-saving measure and as a means to incentivizing the manufacture of affordable and functional CNG automobiles. The letter refers to a multi-state Request for Information (RFI), asking manufacturers to provide background and information in anticipation of a multi-state solicitation later this year.  Participating states include: Oklahoma, Colorado, Wyoming, Pennsylvania, Utah, Maine, New Mexico, West Virginia, Kentucky, Texas, Ohio, Mississippi and Louisiana.

http://www.ok.gov/governor/7129 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:30 -0500 BY BETTY BAILEY, Business Viewspoint
 

Findings from a recently released statewide survey conducted by Gov. Mary Fallin and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce reveal some very positive trends for Oklahoma and the Tulsa area.

A closer look at Tulsa County's results suggests that businesses in our area, like those across the entire state, are optimistic and are hiring, which is a good sign that we are recovering from what has been a tough few years.

More than 5,300 companies participated in the FallinforBusiness.com online questionnaire, the largest statewide survey of businesses ever conducted in Oklahoma.

The responding companies represented more than 250,000 jobs, or 20 percent of Oklahoma's workforce. Of the companies that responded to the survey, 451 are located in Tulsa County.

A leading economic indicator is job creation and the extent to which Tulsa-area business are hiring. Statewide, 37 percent]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7128 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:30 -0500 BY BARBARA HOBEROCK, World Capitol Bureau
 

OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma Senate on Wednesday passed Gov. Mary Fallin's tax-cut proposal.

The measure is expected to wind up in a conference committee with several other tax-cut proposals.

House Bill 3061 would reduce Oklahoma's current tax structure to three brackets from seven.

Under the measure, individuals earning less than $15,000 a year and couples earning $30,000 or less would pay no state income tax.

Individuals earning at least $15,000 but less than $35,000 and couples earning at least $30,000 but less than $70,000 would pay 2.25 percent on all income.

Individuals earning more than $35,000 and couples earning more than $70,000 would pay 3.5 percent on all income.

Oklahoma's current top income tax rate is 5.25 percent.

The measure would eliminate many tax credits and exemptions, according to Fallin's]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7127 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 11:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY - The penalty for running an Oklahoma turnpike toll without the correct change is changing.

Tuesday, Governor Mary Fallin signed a new bill, changing the penalty to one flat fee.

Soon, tickets will always cost $25.00, instead of increasing each time, to $50.00 and up to $75.00.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority asked the legislature to make the change.

"We wanted to create more of customer interaction that would hopefully entice them to become a Pikepass customer," said Jack Damrill, a spokesperson for the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority.

Damrill said the reduced fines are a gesture of goodwill towards drivers.

"We felt like our current structure, 25-50-75 was too punitive," said Damrill.

The Turnpike Authority hopes when customers call to deal with tickets they will be interested in getting a Pikepass.

"We can talk to them about becoming a customer and the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7125 Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced that Woodward County has been granted disaster assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for the deadly tornado outbreak that occurred earlier this month.

The designation provides SBA low interest disaster loans for renters, homeowners, business owners and private, non-profits to repair or replace any property damaged by the storm which was not covered by insurance or other assistance programs. The loan program is also available to assist businesses that sustained economic injury due to the storm. Under SBA rules, the assistance is also available for in the contiguous counties of Dewey, Ellis, Harper, Major, and Woods.

“When I went to Woodward immediately after the tornado struck, I spoke with families who lost everything and saw businesses that were completely destroyed,” Fallin said. “I also saw a community that was determined to get back on its feet quickly.]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7085 Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma State Senate today passed the “Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act,” a tax measure first proposed by Governor Mary Fallin in her February State of the State address. Fallin’s plan reduces the top income tax rate from 5.25% to 3.5%, simplifies the tax code by reducing the total number of tax brackets from seven to three, and eliminates many tax credits and tax exemptions. The plan also provides for the eventual elimination of the state income tax, with additional yearly reductions of .25% to the tax rate linked to a 5% rate of growth in state tax revenue collections. 

“I am grateful to the Senate for passing the ‘Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act,’ as well as their continued focus on tax relief and reform,” Fallin said.  “This is one of several tax cut bills that has now passed in both the House and Senate, and it is clear that a majority of our]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7065 Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Fallin today signed into law HB 2834, which gives the governor flexibility to alter her cabinet at any time during her term of office. Currently, each cabinet member is locked into four year terms as required by Oklahoma statute. The bill was considered at the request of Governor Fallin, and authored by Representative Scott Martin and Senator Rick Brinkley.

“To lead effectively, an executive needs the ability to choose his or her advisors,” Fallin said. “This bill will help me as well as future governors to call on individuals with appropriate expertise to serve over the course of multiple-year terms. I am thankful to the Legislature for sending it to my desk, and happy to sign it into law.” 

Cabinet members will still require Senate confirmation under the new law, which goes into effect on November 1, 2012.

The Oklahoma-based agreement, which has now been reached, permits PSO to comply with EPA rules, including the Regional Haze Rule and the Mercury and Air Toxics Rule, while simultaneously protecting Oklahoma consumers and ratepayers. Under the settlement agreement, PSO agrees to meet specified emission rates at both Northeastern coal units, retire one unit in 2017, install certain emissions control equipment on one Northeastern]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7027 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:45 -0500 By LaShauna Sewell, News9.com
 
A tornado killed six people in Woodward and destroyed or damaged more than 200 homes and businesses.OKLAHOMA CITY - Gov. Mary Fallin requested Wednesday a federal disaster declaration for Woodward County following Sunday morning's deadly tornado. The twister swept through Woodward just after midnight, killing six people, destroying nearly 100 homes and businesses and leaving a long trail of destruction.

A federal disaster declaration would provide assistance to people and businesses in the devastated area. Gov. Fallin said it would be an important first step to helping residents get back on their feet.

"Last weekend's deadly tornadoes led to the tragic loss of six lives and destroyed or severely damaged many homes and businesses," Fallin said. "Having spoken with many of the residents in Woodward who lost everything, I know how important it is to do everything in our power to]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7026 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:15 -0500 The Women in Recovery program graduated its largest class — 18 — during a ceremony Wednesday at the Oklahoma state Capitol.

By Michael McNutt, The Oklahoman

An honors high school graduate, Brooke Larson never thought that within a decade she would be a drug addict facing a 10-year prison sentence. An addict in prison, Larson never expected she would someday be sitting next to Oklahoma's governor and shaking her hand at the state Capitol.

Larson, 32, was among 18 women who recently completed the Women in Recovery program, an alternative to incarceration for nonviolent women in Tulsa County who have alcohol and drug addictions. It is the program's sixth graduating class.

Fallin told the graduates and more than 100 attending Wednesday's ceremony that Oklahoma ranks first in the nation with the rate of incarcerated nonviolent female offenders.

“With programs like Women in Recovery, we are]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7025 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 07:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement on the 17th anniversary of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing:

“Seventeen years ago today, an unimaginable and shocking act of terrorism was perpetrated on Oklahoma City and on our nation. One-hundred and sixty eight lives were lost in that terrible attack, including 19 small children. The horror, the brutality and the evil of the Murrah bombing can never be overstated.

“It was an attack that could have easily crippled our city, and left our people hopeless. It did not. Instead, the people of Oklahoma banded together – with the help of volunteers and well-wishers from across the nation and even the world – to overcome. We worked together; we comforted one another; and we rebuilt. Today we are a more prosperous city and a stronger people.

“On this anniversary, I would ask that all Oklahomans as well as all Americans remember]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/7005 Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today requested a federal disaster declaration for Woodward County in the wake of the deadly tornado that swept through the town of Woodward early Sunday morning. The designation would provide federal assistance to individuals and businesses in the tornado-ravaged area.

Six confirmed deaths including three children and 36 injuries are attributed to the Woodward tornado. According to preliminary damage assessments conducted this weekend, the storm impacted 224 homes and businesses in Woodward County. Of those, 73 were destroyed, 22 sustained major damage and 21 had minor damage.

“Last weekend’s deadly tornadoes led to the tragic loss of six lives and destroyed or severely damaged many homes and businesses,” Fallin said. “Having spoken with many of the residents in Woodward who lost everything, I know how important it is to do everything in our power to quickly rebuild this community. This]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6945 Sun, 15 Apr 2012 12:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today declared a State of Emergency for 12 Oklahoma counties due to tornadoes, severe storms, straight line winds and flooding that began Friday.

The counties included in the declaration are: Alfalfa, Caddo, Canadian, Cleveland, Ellis, Harper, Jackson, Kiowa, Logan, Oklahoma, Woods and Woodward.

The declaration can be amended to add additional counties if conditions warrant.

Since Friday, these Oklahoma counties have experienced tornadoes, straight line winds, damaging hail and flooding. Damage assessments continue in the hardest hit areas, including the city of Woodward where a large tornado has resulted in extensive damage to homes and businesses as well as numerous fatalities.

Under the Executive Order, state agencies can make emergency purchases and acquisitions needed to expedite the delivery of resources to local jurisdictions. The declaration also marks a first step toward seeking]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6926 Fri, 13 Apr 2012 14:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today submitted four nominees for the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Court: Margaret Bomhoff, Michael McGivern, Brad Taylor, and Carla Snipes. These are the first nominees submitted by Fallin for the Workers’ Compensation Court.

“These men and women have over 80 years of combined experience serving in law and, specifically, the field of workers’ compensation law,” Fallin said. “As a group, they have worked on the behalf of both employers and employees, and are committed to being a part of a process that is fair, efficient and just. I am confident that each one will dedicate themselves to a strict reading of the letter of the law, and will interpret – not legislate – from the bench. I’m proud of these nominees and I encourage the Senate to quickly confirm them.”

Margaret Anne Bomhoff of Edmond currently works for the Fellers, Snider, Blankenship, Bailey and ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6925 Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement regarding American Airlines’ restructuring process:

“As Governor, my priority has always been to retain and create as many good jobs as possible for working Oklahomans and their families. In that light, the Department of Commerce and my office, like many others in Oklahoma, have been monitoring the progress of American Airline’s restructuring under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.  While this process is difficult and painful, it is also necessary if American is to emerge a viable company and a strong competitor. 

“Questions have risen recently about what the best outcome of the bankruptcy process may be for Oklahoma, including the possibility of a hostile takeover of the company.  I want to make this clear:  for Oklahoma’s sake, there is no question that the best outcome for our state and its workforce is for American to]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6885 Mon, 09 Apr 2012 10:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced two judicial appointments. Thomas E. Prince has been appointed to the position of District Judge of the 7th Judicial District (Oklahoma County), while A. Clark Jett has been appointed to the position of Associate District Judge in Texas County. Neither appointment requires Senate confirmation.

“Each of these men has a distinguished legal career and a proven dedication to the law,” said Fallin. “I am confident they will serve our state well in the judiciary.”  
 
Prince is replacing Judge Twyla Gray, who is deceased. Prince has been practicing law in Oklahoma since 1982, when he graduated from the Oklahoma City University School of Law. He is currently self-employed, practicing business and corporate law, employment law, health law and a variety of other fields as the sole practitioner at the Prince Law Office in Edmond. Prior to that, Prince was a partner]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6846 Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:00 -0500 SB 1882 Limits Liability of Districts that Allow Groups to Use Facilities for Physical Fitness

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law Senate Bill 1882.  The legislation limits the legal liability of school districts that open indoor or outdoor facilities on a voluntary basis to community groups or individuals for physical activity.

Fallin asked the legislation to be passed in her State of the State Address as part of her agenda to encourage physical fitness and increase health indicators across the state of Oklahoma.

“Becoming a healthier state will not only save lives, it will save hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars and improve our economy,” Fallin said. “That’s why we’re doing everything we can to help encourage our citizens to exercise and stay fit.”

“Unfortunately, many districts have been reluctant to open up school property to their local]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6825 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:30 -0500 Construction to Begin on New Facility in Mayes County Google to Double Capacity in Oklahoma

OKALHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin and Secretary of Commerce Dave Lopez joined Google officials today at  a news conference at the Oklahoma State Capitol to unveil Google’s plan to expand its data center operation at the MidAmerica Industrial Park near Pryor in Mayes County.   The new facility will be constructed next to the original data center which was dedicated in September 2011 and will double production capacity and add several employee amenities.

“We welcome the news today of Google’s plans to continue investing in Oklahoma,” commented Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin.  “Google’s decision to increase the size of their data center in Mayes County highlights the attractiveness of our state as a place to invest and do business.  As a global company recognized for creating]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6805 Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:00 -0500
FallinForBusiness.com survey results announced

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce today announced findings from the FallinForBusiness.com business climate survey.

During December and January, nearly 5,400 business leaders from all 77 counties responded to the governor’s request for input. Their companies represent more than 250,000 jobs and more than 20 percent of Oklahoma’s total workforce.

The large number of survey responses brings a high degree of confidence in the survey results.  The margin of error for questions in the report ranges from 0.9 percent to 1.6 percent, which is a 95 percent confidence interval. Percentages of respondents are similar to state breakdowns for industry, number of employees and geographic dispersion.

“I want to thank all of the business owners and executives who took the time to respond to]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6765 Thu, 29 Mar 2012 15:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY — As access to skilled workers becomes increasingly vital to the U.S. economy, AT&T is launching a quarter-billion-dollar campaign to help more students graduate from high school ready for careers and college, and to ensure the country is better prepared to meet global competition, Governor Mary Fallin and AT&T Oklahoma State President Bryan Gonterman announced today.

AT&T Aspire, already among the most significant U.S. corporate educational initiatives with more than $100 million invested since 2008, will tackle high school success and college/career readiness for students at-risk of dropping out of high school through a much larger, “socially innovative” approach. Social innovation goes beyond traditional philanthropy – which typically involves only charitable giving – to also engage people and technology to bring different approaches, new solutions and added resources to challenging social problems.  The]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6725 Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today applauded Senator Dan Newberry and Representative Glen Mulready for introducing Senate Concurrent Resolution 33, calling for a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The resolution notes that “an irresponsible pattern of spending and borrowing has resulted in a total outstanding national debt of more than $15 trillion,” and calls upon the president and Congress to balance the budget and to “reduce both spending levels and the annual debt.” 

Fallin asked the legislature in her State of the State address earlier this year to pass such a resolution, saying the state of Oklahoma needs to send a message to Washington that out-of-control spending was hurting the economy and threatening the nation’s future.

“Washington’s reckless spending habits are leading this country off a fiscal cliff,” said Fallin. “It is wrong; it is irresponsible]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6686 Thu, 22 Mar 2012 13:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement regarding President Obama’s remarks on energy policy during a visit to Cushing, Okla.:

“I am happy that President Obama took the time to visit Oklahoma today, and I welcome him to our great state.  Oklahoma offers a fine example of how a thriving energy industry coupled with pro-growth policies can lead to low unemployment and a strong economy.  Energy exploration and production is an important part of our history and our current success, and it is my hope the president was able to learn something from our many industry experts during his time here.

“In his remarks today, President Obama said he supports an ‘all of the above’ energy strategy.  As evidence of that support, he cites the Cushing pipeline, an important project being developed and paid for by TransCanada, a private sector corporation.  In this case the]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6685 Wed, 21 Mar 2012 16:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin released the following statement regarding the temporary appointment of Secretary of Finance Preston Doerflinger to the position of interim director of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS):

“Secretary Doerflinger is a problem-solver with a proven track record of getting results. As the director of the Office of State Finance, he has been instrumental in reforming and consolidating state agencies in a manner that will save millions of taxpayer dollars while improving state services. His leadership and good judgment have helped my administration to deliver on the promise of more efficient and effective state government. I am confident that his appointment as interim director of DHS will serve that agency well as it pursues reforms and continued improvements. I applaud our DHS commissioners for making an excellent choice in Preston.

“My thanks go out as well to Terri White, whose service to both ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6665 Wed, 21 Mar 2012 11:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin issued the following statement today regarding President Barack Obama’s visit to Cushing, Oklahoma, where he is scheduled to discuss energy policy:

“I am pleased that President Obama is able to make his first visit to the great state of Oklahoma this week and to personally see the good work going on in Cushing. The TransCanada pipeline to be built there will connect Oklahoma to oil markets on the Gulf Coast, resulting in the creation of more than 1,000 Oklahoma jobs. This project will help to bolster our energy industry and security for years to come.

“I am glad the president supports the construction of the pipeline connecting Cushing to the Gulf. Impeding the progress of something which is so obviously beneficial to both the economy and the energy security of the United States would have been nothing short of irresponsible.

“Unfortunately, President Obama and his]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6645 Sun, 18 Mar 2012 09:00 -0500 Published: March 18, 2012

Public officials find it difficult to lead when personal lifestyle is involved, including choices about smoking, exercise and diet. Yet such prevention initiatives remain important levers for reducing disease. That's why we should be especially proud of Oklahoma's “CEO,” Gov. Mary Fallin, and her decision to prohibit tobacco use on state property. The CEO Roundtable on Cancer stands behind Fallin. Her action is an important step for improved health and a call for leadership nationwide to lower cancer rates.

How important? Government data on lung cancer place Oklahoma eighth nationwide in that form of cancer for men and fifth for women. This form of cancer is the highest cause of cancer-related death in Oklahoma. Fallin's action could also help Oklahoma understand that improved health comes from choices that stave off illness in the first place, whether that illness is cancer, obesity or]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6627 Fri, 16 Mar 2012 09:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced that Altus resident Randy Sheets has been reappointed to the Board of Regents of Western Oklahoma State College. He is being reappointed for a seven year term pending confirmation from the Oklahoma Senate.

“Randy has done a fantastic job since first being appointed to the board in 1996,” Fallin said. “He has proven his dedication to WOSC and to quality higher education. I know he will continue to do a great job for the school and the community.”

Sheets is a physician at Integris Medical Clinic. He has taught at the University of Oklahoma School of Medicine and the Southwestern Oklahoma Family Practice residency program in Lawton.

He was a finalist for the Aesculapius Teaching Award for teaching medical students in 2010 and awarded the Kenneth L. Evans Excellence in Teaching Award in 2003.

Sheets and his wife Debra have two children and three]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6585 Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the following appointments to various boards, councils and commissions.

Advisory Council on Workers’ Compensation

Dan Simmons of Oklahoma City is the president of CompChoice, a company that provides managed care services specific to workers’ compensation for employers and employees. He is a board member at the Oklahoma State Chamber of Commerce. Simmons received a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s College in St. Louis, Mo. and a doctorate degree in chiropractic medicine from Logan College of Chiropractic. He is being reappointed to the council and will serve as a representative of a predominant statewide broad-based business organization.

Rochelle Guinn of Norman is the assistant general counsel and senior director of employment and labor at Sonic Corporation. She received a bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University and a law]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6546 Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:15 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today signed into law Senate Bill 1959, which provides $92.5 million in emergency supplemental funding for needs in education, public safety, natural disaster relief, and at the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office. The governor released the following statement:

“Today’s supplemental funding measures will help to ensure the state of Oklahoma is keeping its commitment to our teachers, protecting our citizens by putting more troopers on our state highways,  and providing necessary assistance to communities hard-hit by natural disasters. It also provides necessary personnel and equipment upgrades at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, helping to put that agency back on a path to accreditation.

“All of these funding measures are both urgent and necessary. I applaud the Legislature for sending this supplemental bill to my desk quickly, and I am happy to be able to sign it into]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6526 Thu, 08 Mar 2012 17:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin released the following statement today concerning legislative leaders’ decision to hold Senate Bill 1629:

“I accept the Legislature’s decision and I remain extremely hopeful that the U.S. Supreme Court will do the right thing and rule the Affordable Care Act unconstitutional,” Fallin said.  “In the event that it does not, I still believe that establishing a free market, Oklahoma-based online health insurance marketplace that protects consumer choice is the best defense against a federally run exchange.”

“Ultimately, Oklahoma Republicans all share the same goal:  to prevent the unaffordable and unconstitutional federal health care law from being implemented here. We will continue to work together to pursue that common goal and to protect the rights of all Oklahomans.”

Barcus currently serves as the vice chief judge of the Domestic Relations Division in Tulsa County District Court.  He previously served as a family court referee in Tulsa County District Court.

“Judge Barcus has proven to be a fair and effective judge and a dedicated public servant,” Fallin said.  “I know he’ll work to defend both the letter and spirit of the law and will do a great job as Tulsa County’s new district judge.”

Barcus previously spent several years in private law practice in the Tulsa area.  He served on the Tulsa Public Schools Board of Education.  Barcus serves on a variety of organizations supporting the arts, including the Board of Directors of the Oklahoma Arts Institute.

He served]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6465 Tue, 06 Mar 2012 18:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement in response to the news that the Air Force will eliminate hundreds of military and non-military personnel in Oklahoma, including the 600 men and women of Tinker Air Force Base’s 3rd Combat Communications Group, also called the Third Herd:

“The announced cuts to Oklahoma Air Force personnel are both disappointing and alarming. Oklahoma’s Air Force bases are not only important parts of their local communities; they play a vital role in our national defense. The decision to eliminate hundreds of military and civilian Air Force personnel will mean Oklahoma will lose jobs and the United States Air Force will be without quality units like the Third Herd.

“It is disturbing that President Obama is so eager to make billions of dollars in funding and personnel cuts to our military even while spending on entitlements and social programs continue to]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6405 Fri, 02 Mar 2012 13:45 -0500  

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today thanked lawmakers for quickly acting on proposals outlined in her State of the State address and in her executive budget, presented at the start of the legislative session. Fallin had outlined proposals to cut the state income tax, modernize state government, increase energy efficiency in government, improve the state’s bridges and highways, and provide better access to medical care in rural and underserved areas. She also proposed emergency funding measures in areas that include public safety, education and natural disaster relief. All of these proposals have now been heard and passed out of their respective legislative committees.

“Oklahomans want their elected officials to focus on legislation that will help to create jobs, improve their quality of life and reduce government waste,” Fallin said. “I’m happy to say that’s exactly what our lawmakers are]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6367 Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:45 -0500 BY MICHAEL MCNUTT, Oklahoman

Gov. Mary Fallin's personal income tax reduction plan cleared its first legislative hurdle Wednesday when a House committee voted to advance it to the full House for consideration.

But her proposal, which calls for cutting the top personal income tax rate by nearly half, has a tough road ahead as lawmakers struggle to eliminate economic tax credits, some of which are necessary for her plan to succeed.

The House of Representatives Appropriations and Budget Committee voted 9-8 to defeat an amendment by Rep. Don Armes, R-Lawton, to remove a tax credit for the state's wind industry from the measure, House Bill 3061. And the committee later voted not to pass HB 2876, which would have extended or imposed a two-year moratorium on 29 tax credits, which would have saved the state $29 million in the upcoming fiscal year and $37.3 million in the 2014 fiscal year.

The author of the measure, Rep. David Dank,]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6366 Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – The “Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act,” the tax cut plan outlined by Governor Mary Fallin in her State of the State address, was heard today in the House Appropriations Committee where it passed by a margin of 11-6. The bill is sponsored by House Speaker Kris Steele and Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman. The bill now heads to the House floor before it can make its way to the Senate.

“The Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act is a game-changer for the state,” Fallin said. “This reform measure will provide immediate tax relief to a large majority of Oklahoma families while delivering a far more attractive tax climate for businesses deciding where to locate.  By passing this legislation, we’ll be leaving more money in the pockets of working Oklahomans while helping to attract new and better jobs. This will deliver the boldest, most significant tax reduction in state history, and]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6325 Wed, 29 Feb 2012 10:30 -0500 BY D.R. STEWART, World Staff Writer

Oklahoma's long and colorful aviation history is part of the fabric of the state, and its economic contributions have sustained it through wars and recessions, Gov. Mary Fallin said Tuesday.

Speaking at the 2012 Partnership Conference - sponsored by the Oklahoma Airport Operators Association, the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission and the Federal Aviation Administration Southwest Region Airports Division - Fallin said the Oklahoma aviation industry precedes statehood.

The governor spoke before 350 people at the Renaissance Tulsa Hotel and Convention Center.

While Oklahoma's oil boom was beginning with the drilling of the Ida E. Glenn No. 1 well 10 miles south of Tulsa in 1905, Clyde Cessna began flying his first airplane, Fallin said.

"Another Oklahoman named Wiley Post discovered the jet stream and twice set records for flying aircraft around the world," she said. "He]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6326 Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:30 -0500 BY MICHAEL MCNUTT, Capitol Bureau Oklahoman

A deal has been reached to provide $92.5 million of emergency funding for this fiscal year that, among other things, would pay for $5,000 National Board Certified teacher bonuses, hold a trooper academy and reimburse local communities and counties for disaster assistance, legislative budget leaders announced Tuesday.

The money comes from increased state revenue collections this fiscal year. Collections are coming in about 10 percent higher than estimates for the 2012 fiscal year, which ends July 1. The money for the supplemental appropriations is from increased collections.

“Thanks to our growing economy, the state now has the money to address obligations we are committed to,” said House Appropriations and Budget Committee Chairman Earl Sears, R-Bartlesville.

Senate Bill 1959 was scheduled to be taken up Tuesday by a Senate joint budget committee. A House joint budget committee]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6286 Mon, 27 Feb 2012 12:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY –  Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin today applauded TransCanada’s decision to proceed with the construction of an oil pipeline from Cushing, Oklahoma to the U.S. Gulf Coast. The pipeline represents the southern leg of the Keystone XL Pipeline project that would transport oil from Canada and various U.S. markets to the Gulf Coast.

“Connecting Cushing to oil markets in the Gulf Coast will provide both an immediate economic jolt to the state of Oklahoma as well as a long term boost to our energy sector,” Fallin said. “Construction of the pipeline alone will create 1,200 jobs, while increasing access to the important markets along the coast will help energy producers for many years to come. This is an important, positive step forward for Oklahoma, and my thanks go out to TransCanada for its leadership on this issue.”

TransCanada also announced today that it plans to file a Presidential Permit application]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6245 Tue, 21 Feb 2012 11:15 -0500 Governor Says Additional $47.2 Million Should Go Toward Tax Cuts 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today welcomed the news of an additional expenditure authority of $47.2 million in state revenue as presented to the Board of Equalization.  The latest estimates set total appropriations authority at $6,579,752,153, which is $47.2 million more than the previous estimate from December.  Additionally, the board announced that, according to the revised estimates for the current fiscal year, $319 million likely will be deposited into the state’s Rainy Day Fund.

“The increase in certified revenue is another positive signal that Oklahoma’s economy continues to bounce back.  It’s also great evidence that our pro-growth, pro-business reforms and fiscally sound policy decisions are paying off,” Fallin said.

“The best way to continue our prosperity]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6226 Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:00 -0500 BY JERRY WOFFORD, World Staff Writer

Service members leaving the military have a new resource in Oklahoma to help them with employment in the civilian world.

The Oklahoma National Guard is developing the Employment Coordination Program, which will connect service members and veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to employment opportunities in the state.

With more than 3,000 members of the Oklahoma National Guard in various stages of demobilization from their deployments to Afghanistan and Kuwait, Guard officials say the program will be important in providing them with stability.

About a third of the soldiers returning will not have jobs when they get back to the state, said Maj. Geoff Legler, spokesman for the Oklahoma National Guard.

Lt. Col. Warren Griffis started as the director of the Employment Coordination Program in January and has since worked to build the program from the ground up, all in preparation for the ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6229 Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:15 -0500 By Hannah Cruz, The Norman Transcript

NORMAN — Greeted by American flags and lots of applause, 32 soldiers with the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team returned home to Oklahoma on Friday after deployment to Afghanistan and Kuwait.

Soldiers were addressed by Gov. Mary Fallin and Maj. Gen. Myles Deering, adjutant general for Oklahoma, at the Norman Armed Forces Reserve Center before embracing waiting and friends and families.

“Welcome home,” said Fallin, to the gathered citizen-soldiers. “It’s so great to have you home — there is no place like home. I think you can agree with me today: There’s no place like Oklahoma.”

His wife’s fingers laced between his own, Master Sgt. David Hornback, stood in fatigues reunited with his family for the first time since last February.

A big grin on her face and unwilling to let go, Hornback’s daughter, Emma, clung to his neck. Three]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6228 Sat, 18 Feb 2012 09:15 -0500 BY KEVIN CANFIELD, World Staff Writer

NORMAN - About 30 members of the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team were welcomed home from Afghanistan on Friday by family, friends and the state's top elected official.

"We know your dedication and sacrifice keeps our state and our nation free," said Gov. Mary Fallin. "I want each and every one of you to know that the entire state of Oklahoma holds a profound respect and admiration for your service."

The soldiers arrived at the Norman Armed Forces Reserve Center mid-morning Friday. They are the second group of soldiers from the Oklahoma National Guard's 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team to demobilize after their deployment to Afghanistan and Kuwait.

About 40 members of the 45th combat team returned to Norman a week ago, the first of the approximately 3,000 soldiers to return to the state as part of the official demobilization.

Nearly 2,200 of those soldiers]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6205 Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:30 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today applauded the board of the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) for approving funds to create a fitness center at the state Capitol. Board members approved a $38,500 proposal submitted by the governor, which includes a $20,000 contribution from the Oklahoma Hospital Association. The funds will largely be used for exercise equipment.

Fallin had proposed creating a Capitol Fitness Center in her annual State of the State address.

“Obesity is one of the major drags on the state’s health indicators, and we’re trying to lead by example at the Capitol by working out and improving our physical fitness,” Fallin said. “My thanks go out to the board members of TSET as well as the Oklahoma Hospital Association for their support of this effort.”

In her State of the State address, Fallin addressed Oklahoma’s poor health indicators, saying that]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6231 Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:30 -0500 By Darren Brown, News 9

NORMAN, Oklahoma - Over thirty of Oklahoma's Finest are back home this week after serving in Afghanistan and Kuwait.

Thirty-two members of Oklahoma's 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team were released back to their families in a short ceremony at Norman's Armed Forces Reserve Center.

Governor Mary Fallin joined Maj. General Myles Deering in welcoming back the troops.  They thanked the troops and their families for their sacrifices.

Army Specialist Devon Kershner made a beeline to his new daughter as soon as the troops were dismissed.

"I actually didn't get to see her born," said Kershner.  "It's awesome to see her again."

Kershner's daughter Desiree was born about four months after he left the country.  Kershner's wife Lauren was excited to see her husband take on the role of new father.

"She's getting]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6230 Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:15 -0500 By The Edmond Sun

EDMOND — Gov. Mary Fallin defined her governorship on Feb. 6 and cemented her legacy as a leader. In her State of the State address, Fallin laid out her vision for how Oklahoma can grow or lead in several important areas.

Nowhere in that speech did she throw down the “my way or the highway” gauntlet to legislators or the people of Oklahoma. No, she truly offered a multi-point plan that offers opportunity for discussion that could bear rich fruit for our state.

Her speech was thoughtful, insightful and at times provocative. But nowhere was she more bold than in outlining her income tax elimination plan.

In offering an income tax reform plan that could take up to 15 years to fully implement, Fallin was careful to find ways to protect the state’s poorest and neediest citizens. She’s found a responsible way of approaching this necessary reform while putting everyone on notice that changes are ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6227 Fri, 17 Feb 2012 09:00 -0500 By Rowynn Ricks, The Woodward News

Woodward, Okla. — State, local, and wind industry officials welcomed Siemens Energy to Woodward on Thursday.

The energy company held a grand opening ceremony Thursday afternoon for its new Woodward Wind Service Distribution Center, which is located by the West Woodward Airport.

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin was among several state dignitaries who attended the event, as well as State Secretary of Commerce Dave Lopez and State Secretary of Energy Mike Ming and Corporation Commissioner Dana Murphy.

"We're just thrilled Siemens has chosen Oklahoma," Fallin said as she addressed the crowd of about 200 in attendance.

"We know you have other sites, other states, other locations," she said, describing it as a "competitive marketplace" for wind industry development throughout the nation.

But, speaking of Woodward, she promised the Siemens executives in]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6186 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:30 -0500 BY MICHAEL MCNUTT, Oklahoman  

Gov. Mary Fallin made a push to legislators to support her personal income tax reduction and elimination proposal as revenue reports released Tuesday showed the state set an all-time monthly record for state sales tax collections.

“It is great news that sales tax receipts reached an all-time high and our economy is continuing to grow,” Fallin said. “I am encouraging legislators to see this as an opportunity, not to grow government or to spend more on government bureaucracy, but to pursue a bold plan to cut taxes and allow Oklahomans to keep more of their hard-earned money.”

Oklahomans went on a buying spree in late December and early January as sales tax collections for the state's general revenue fund, the main source of state funding, totaled $165 million in January, the report shows.

“This is the largest amount of money we have ever collected from sales taxes ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6185 Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:30 -0500 BY BARBARA HOBEROCK, World Capitol Bureau

OKLAHOMA CITY - General revenue sales-tax collections for January hit an all-time monthly record, the Office of State Finance said Tuesday.

Sales tax collections generated $165 million in January, but the collection includes two weeks prior to Christmas, said Ron Jenkins, a spokesman for the office.

"This is the largest amount of money we have ever collected from sales taxes in any month of any year ever in Oklahoma," said State Finance Director Preston Doerflinger. "Consumer confidence appears to be high early in the second half of the 2012 fiscal year."

State sales tax collections for January were up almost 12 percent from the same month a year ago.

"It is great news that sales tax receipts reached an all-time high and our economy is continuing to grow," Gov. Mary Fallin said.

"I am encouraging legislators to see this as an opportunity, ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6188 Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:45 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin is honoring an Okarche-based company for converting its 2,000th vehicle to run on compressed natural gas.

Fallin held a ceremony Monday at the state Capitol to recognize OEM Systems, Inc., which converts gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles to run instead on compressed natural gas. The 2000th conversion was a state vehicle used by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture.

Fallin is one of a bipartisan group of governors from 10 states that have signed a memorandum promising to invest in natural gas vehicles in state automobile fleets. Its aim is to encourage U.S. automakers to produce natural gas fleet vehicles that will also meet public demand.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Oklahoma was the third-largest gas producing state in 2009 behind Texas and Wyoming.

An Okarche company earned a commendation from Gov. Mary Fallin on Monday for converting 2,000 vehicles to run on compressed natural gas.

The milestone conversion by OEM Systems Inc. was a vehicle for the state Department of Agriculture.

Fallin praised OEM and Agriculture Secretary Jim Reese for their commitment to using natural gas, an abundant Oklahoma resource.

OEM has done most of its business on conversions with companies interested in saving money on fuel for their vehicle fleets, led by Chesapeake Energy Corp.

Chesapeake is in the midst of converting its entire 5,000-vehicle fleet to CNG. OEM already has converted about 1,250 vehicles for the Oklahoma City-based oil and natural gas company.

OEM owner Lisha Oshman credited Fallin with helping drive demand for CNG to another level.

In November, Fallin announced an initiative to spur investment in CNG technology by joining]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6145 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:15 -0500
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Office of the Attorney General today filed an application on behalf of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) asking the State Supreme Court to assume original jurisdiction over a comprehensive stream adjudication to determine who has rights to the waters of three major stream systems in southeastern Oklahoma. The motion comes after the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations have aggressively pursued litigation in which they claim the right to all the waters in these streams.

Governor Fallin released the following statement concerning water policy and the action taken today by the state:

“My goal is to work with legislators, the tribes and other interested parties to develop a water policy that benefits all Oklahomans in all areas of the state. It’s an important issue and we need to get it right, not just in the short term, but for our children and grandchildren as well. Oklahoma’s water future affects ]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6088 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:30 -0500 By Andrew C. Spiropoulos, Journal Record Guest Columnist
 

If you’re the kind of person that likes to compare political debate to warfare, you’ll appreciate that one way to understand the differences between the federal and the Oklahoma legislative processes is to compare them to how World War I and the Civil War were fought.

The federal legislative process, with its year-round schedule and well-paid and -staffed full-time legislators, is like World War I: a never-ending and steady diet of constant engagement – political trench warfare.

Our state’s legislative process is more similar to the Civil War; each legislative session is like a particular campaign like those that culminated in the battles of Gettysburg or Antietam. The side that seizes the best ground is likely to prevail in battle. In our system, the governor, in her State of the State address and the submission of her proposed budget, has the first]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6086 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:00 -0500 By WAYNE GREENE, World Senior Writer
 

Oklahoma's income tax system is flat on top and oddly graduated underneath.

On Monday, Gov. Mary Fallin announced a plan to cut the state's income tax system dramatically. Starting next year, Fallin wants the state's top income tax rate to be 3.5 percent. That rate would kick in on net income over $70,000 a year for a married couple filing jointly.

The current comparable top rate is 5.25 percent, which kicks on net income over $15,000 a year.

That's correct: The state's top tax bracket - and there are six other lower tax brackets - kicks in at $15,000 a year, about $80 a year less than the gross earning of someone working full time at the U.S. minimum wage.

If you file individually, the top rate kicks in on net income above $8,700 a year, more than $2,400 a year below the gross income of the poverty level.

A search through state law books]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6087 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:00 -0500 The Norman Transcript

NORMAN — Oklahoma has long had college students who leave campus before finishing their degrees. They leave to take jobs in order to support families, they get behind in studies and don’t see a way out, or they just need a break. Additionally, some students are pushed into university studies before they are ready.

Dropping out is acceptable by many. It’s a mindset many Oklahomans have that having some college hours is nearly as good as finishing a degree. Many entry-level jobs advertise “some college” preferred.

Oklahoma’s Chancellor of Higher Education Glen Johnson and Gov. Mary Fallin hope to boost the number of college degrees handed out over the next 12 years.

Mr. Johnson and Mrs. Fallin want to count an additional 20,400 college graduates and certificates. Recruitment of students seems to be the easy part, as Oklahoma has enjoyed record enrollments over the past few years.]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6085 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced that Steven Mullins of Norman is her new general counsel. Prior to joining the governor’s office, Mullins was an assistant United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.

Mullins has an extensive legal background including positions in the U.S. Department of Justice as the Senior Legal Advisor for the Department of Justice in Kabul, Afghanistan and General Counsel to the 94 United States Attorneys.  He was appointed the United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota by President George W. Bush and served in multiple positions for the U.S. Attorney’s office for the Western District of Oklahoma including Executive Assistant, Civil Chief and Senior Litigation Counsel. He is also currently an adjunct law professor at the University of Oklahoma.  Additionally, Mullins has instructed numerous training courses for the United States Department of]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6065 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today released the following statement concerning Attorney General Scott Pruitt’s lawsuit to stop the construction of the Kialegee Tribal Town casino in Broken Arrow: 

“While I share the concern that many Broken Arrow residents have over the construction of a casino in their community, my office is unfortunately left with no legal way of blocking the project. The same does not hold true for our attorney general, however, and I am happy that Attorney General Pruitt has decided to take this matter to court. I certainly do not support the construction of a gaming facility which local residents do not want and which may have a negative impact on the community.

“Moving forward, it is my hope that state law can be adjusted to give the office of the governor greater flexibility in approving or denying gaming compacts of this nature.”

http://www.ok.gov/governor/6050 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:00 -0500 OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today announced the appointments to the following boards and commissions.

Board of Agriculture

Ed Hurliman of Broken Bow is owner of Hurliman Forestry Services, a private forestry consulting business. He is the first forester to be appointed to the Board of Agriculture.  Hurliman received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois.  He is a current member of the Society of American Foresters and the Oklahoma Forestry Association. Hurliman also serves on the board of directors for the Oklahoma Forest Heritage Center, First National Bank of Idabel and on the Natural Resources Conservation Service Technical Committee. Hurliman is replacing Don Britton and represents District 1. The appointment requires Senate confirmation.   

Board of Governors of the Licensed Architects, Landscape Architects and Registered Interior]]> http://www.ok.gov/governor/6049 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:45 -0500 BY MICHAEL MCNUTT, Oklahoman