Category Archives: State

Permitting Process Holds Us Back

Opinion: Everyone rails about how government red tape is a problem. I’ve seen it firsthand, and they’re absolutely right—especially when it comes to permitting new energy and infrastructure projects.

Our country’s burdensome permitting process is one of the biggest obstacles to modernizing infrastructure, unleashing American energy production, and spurring economic growth in rural and underserved communities. The capital and technical capabilities exist—they are just sitting on the sidelines because the process of obtaining federal approval for major projects has become so slow, uncertain, and fragmented that it discourages investment altogether.

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Stop D.C.’s Push to One-Size Agreements

For nearly two decades, I have dedicated my career to caring for Oklahoma’s seniors and supporting the professionals who make their long-term care possible. As co-owner of Bison Health Management, Executive Director of West Wind Assisted Living, and owner and COO of Refuge Care, I see firsthand the challenges of building strong teams and running businesses in a heavily regulated field. Add to that my experience as a small business owner and former Oklahoma state senator, and I have learned one thing above all: when government oversteps, workers and businesses both suffer.

That’s why I am deeply concerned about the so-called Faster Labor Contracts Act recently introduced in Washington. On its face, the bill claims to streamline negotiations between employers and newly certified unions. In reality, it hands unprecedented power to government bureaucrats at the expense of Oklahoma workers and businesses.

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Corrections Officer Rescues Officer

Oklahoma Department of Corrections Sgt. Tyler Gaines is being recognized as a hero after his brave intervention during a tense incident in Hominy. While off duty, Gaines saw a Hominy police officer having difficulty arresting a suspect who was allegedly “terrorizing the city.”

As Hominy Police Officer George Calkins struggled with the suspect, Gaines happened to be driving by on his way to meet up with family the Department detailed in a release Thursday. A video of the encounter is included below.

Sgt. Tyler Gaines
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Walters Joins Teacher Freedom Alliance

After resigning his position as Oklahoma State Superintendent, Ryan Walters has been named incoming Chief Executive Officer of the Teacher Freedom Alliance, a new national organization founded by the Freedom Foundation that provides educators professional support services and resources as an alternative to traditional union membership.

While conservatives supported many of Walter’s anti-woke initiatives, they frequently acknowledged that, during his term as State Superintendent, the most dangerous place any Oklahoman could stand was between Ryan Walters and a television camera. What Oklahomans demand is quality K-12 instruction in phonics, mathematics, and personal economics. Less dramatic leadership would also be appreciated.

Ryan Walters
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