School Security Measures Signed by Fallin

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:

• SB 256, requiring school districts to conduct lockdown drills in addition to fire, intruder, and tornado emergency drill
• SB 257, directing the Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security to designate a division within the agency as the Oklahoma School Security Institute. The Institute would act as a central hub of information and resources related to school security and risk assessments to campuses. Objectives and goals of the Institute include: maximization of school security and training; implementation of safety drills and facilitation of information related to school safety.
• SB 258, creating an annual deadline of Nov. 1 for institutions of higher learning to provide reports to emergency responders and agencies with details of updated plans for protecting students, faculty and visitors from disasters and emergencies.
• SB 259, requiring school authorities to immediately report to
  
  law enforcement if a firearm is discovered on a student that is not a minor or an adult that isn’t authorized to possess a firearm on school property. Also, the bill dictates the weapon in question to be delivered to law enforcement.

“I thank the Governor for her signatures on these bills which stemmed from the recommendations from the Oklahoma Commission on School Security,” Lamb said.  “I thank the members of the commission that came from all across Oklahoma and sacrificed their time and provided expertise.  The primary goal of any government is to protect its people.  These bills will do just that.”

Four School Safety Measures Head to Governor

OKLAHOMA CITY – Four bills authored by House Speaker T.W. Shannon related to the issue of school safety passed full votes of the House Thursday.

In the wake of the tragedy in Newtown, Conn., late last year, Speaker Shannon, President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman and Lt. Governor Todd Lamb created the Oklahoma Commission on School Security. The Commission submitted a report to state leaders detailing suggestions on things the state of Oklahoma can do to make its schools safer and more secure. These four bills are a direct result of that report.

“Our children are precious and we must take the necessary steps to protect them while they are spending the day at school learning,” said Speaker Shannon, R-Lawton. “Recent tragedies like the one at Sandy Hook Elementary remind us that we must remain vigilant in the protection of our children. As a father, this is a particularly important issue to me.”

Senate Bill 256 would require school districts to conduct lockdown drills in addition to fire, intruder, and tornado emergency drill.

With the passage of Senate Bill 257, the “Oklahoma School Security Institute” is one step closer to reality. SB 257 directs the Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security to designate a division within the office as the OSSI. The Institute would act as a central hub of information and resources related to school security and risk assessments to campuses. Objectives and goals of the Institute include: maximization of school security and training; implementation of safety drills and facilitation of information related to school safety.

Creating a hard deadline date for school administrators of Nov. 1 annually, Senate Bill 258 requires institutions of higher learning to provide reports to emergency responders and agencies with details of updated plans for protecting students, faculty and visitors from disasters and emergencies.

Senate Bill 259 would require school authorities to immediately report to law enforcement if a firearm is discovered on a student that is not a minor or an adult that isn’t authorized to possess a firearm on school property. Also, the bill dictates the weapon in question to be delivered to law enforcement.

“With the passage of these four measures, it is my hope that we’re doing right by our children to ensure they have a safe and secure environment in which to learn and grow,” Speaker Shannon said. “It is vital to protect our children properly and I believe these bills will improve the safety environment of our schools.”

Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb in early March released the policy recommendations of the Oklahoma School Security Commission.

“As parents we want all children to do well academically, but our first priority is for our children, our students to be safe and secure during their school day," Lamb said. "No policy can prevent evil from occurring, but our hope is that these recommendations will mitigate and lessen the potential of future large scale school violence.”

President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman praised the work of the Commission.

“It is rare to see any policy proposal receive near-universal support at the state Capitol," said Bingman, R-Sapulpa. "I think it’s a testament to the seriousness with which the Commission went about finding common-sense ways to respond in the face of an agonizing national tragedy.

“I want to thank Speaker Shannon, Leader Burrage, and Leader Inman for their dedication to making the Commission recommendations successful. But most importantly, I want to thank the members of the Commission for their service, their time, and their expertise. Lt. Governor Lamb deserves our appreciation for his leadership of the Commission, and I believe I echo the thoughts of the Commission members when I say his sound judgment was essential to the formulation and passage of today’s legislation.

The measures now move to the governor’s desk for final consideration.

Lamb, Oklahoma Commission on School Security Release Policy Recommendations

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL—Lt. Governor Todd Lamb joined the 22 members of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security on Tuesday to announce their policy recommendations that stem from a several week comprehensive analysis of Oklahoma school security issues.  These policy recommendations were formally released in the 2013 Report of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security.

The Oklahoma Commission on School Security was formed after the elementary school shooting in Newtown, Connecticut last December.  President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman and Speaker of the House T.W. Shannon asked Lt. Governor Lamb to chair the statewide commission.  Lt. Governor Lamb is a former United States Secret Service Agent and as a State Senator was the principal author of the 2008 Oklahoma School Security Act.  Commission agendas included speaker testimony and discussion on the various factors related to school security including but not limited to public safety, mental health, training, engineering and local control.

“The members of this commission sacrificed their time and provided their expertise to this very important issue,” said Lt. Governor Lamb.  “As parents we want all children to do well academically, but our first priority is for our children, our students to be safe and secure during their school day.  No policy can prevent evil from occurring, but our hope is that these recommendations will mitigate and lessen the potential of future large scale school violence.”

The Oklahoma Commission on School Security was given a March deadline in order for recommendations to be placed in bills this legislative session.

After hearing expert testimony and completing their study, the Oklahoma Commission on School Security submitted the following legislative recommendations:

Lamb Champions Replacement of Work Comp System

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb continues his push to change Oklahoma's workers' compensation system in his most recent monthly column. Lamb is not promoting further reform but a complete replacement of the current system. 

Lamb relays what he has heard while traveling the state as Small Business Advocate:

"... business owners across the state made it clear that their biggest impediment and barrier to growth is Oklahoma’s current workers’ compensation system. The call to replace the current workers’ compensation system is an issue we can no longer ignore. Oklahoma is currently the sixth most expensive state to do business. By replacing our current adversarial system, which immediately pits an employee against an employer, with an administrative model of governance we will find savings that will result in more jobs."

Lamb Releases Second Policy and Issues Report

Oklahoma City—Lt. Governor Todd Lamb recently released his second Lt. Governor’s Policy and Issues Report. The report stems from the Lt. Governor’s travels across all of Oklahoma’s 77 counties, in particular his series of six Small Business and Small Manufacturer summits held in various communities.

As Oklahoma’s Small Business Advocate, the Lt. Governor felt meeting with business owners was a priority in determining how to effectively move Oklahoma forward. During his visits, the Lt. Governor heard numerous relevant suggestions that he included in his report.

“The people of Oklahoma, who on a daily basis work to move this state forward, are the best sources for policy recommendations,” said Lt. Governor Lamb. “And as Lt. Governor is it my duty to listen and help address the challenges facing Oklahoma citizens.”

The specific content within the Lt. Governor’s Policy and Issues Report includes policy proposals in the areas of workers’ compensation reform, tax reform, workforce development, unemployment compensation, and tourism.

“The number one issue discussed among business owners was the critical need for workers’ compensation reform,” said Lt. Governor Lamb. “Some workers’ compensation measures have been approved in the past several years, but the call for an entire system analysis and reform by Oklahoma business cannot be ignored.”

Lt. Governor Lamb added the goal of his report is to generate legislation that will produce a growing, thriving Oklahoma.

“Making the state more competitive, educating a skilled workforce and providing accountability within government agencies and entities is the key to advancing our state and was the focus of my policy and issues report,” said Lt. Governor Lamb. “As we look ahead to a new year and a new legislative session, I am confident that these ideas and suggestions, submitted by Oklahoma voters themselves, will result in much needed reforms.”

The report can be viewed in its entirety on Lt. Governor Lamb’s website at ok.gov/ltgovernor.

Members of Oklahoma Commission on School Security Announced

Oklahoma City—Lt. Governor Todd Lamb, Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman, House Speaker T.W. Shannon, Senate Democratic Leader Sean Burrage and House Democratic Leader Scott Inman announced last week the members of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security.

Lt. Governor Lamb, a former United States Secret Service Agent, will serve as chair of the commission and looks forward to the work set to be accomplished.   

“Partnering with legislative leaders to create the Oklahoma Commission on School Security was a much-needed, proactive decision,” said Lt. Governor Lamb.  “Our children deserve safe and secure learning environments and this commission is committed to doing just that.  Each commission member brings experience from their respective field that will generate ideas and solutions to enhance school security.”

Members of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security include local school personnel, law enforcement, parents and health care professionals, and are as follows:

1. Roger Webb – Headmaster, Oklahoma Christian School/former President, University of Central Oklahoma/former Commissioner, Department of Public Safety
2. Maj. Gen. Lee Baxter (retired) –State Board of Education Member
3. Dr. Ryan Brown – Associate Professor of Psychology, University of Oklahoma
4. Lyn Watson – Oklahoma City School Board, District 1
5. Randy Holley – Superintendent, Shattuck Public Schools
6. Dr. Gary Quinn – Superintendent, Bartlesville Public Schools
7. Kevin Burr – Superintendent, Sapulpa Public Schools
8. Mike McClaren – Superintendent, Claremore Public Schools
9. Dr. Trice Butler – Principal, Wilburton Middle School
10. Dr. Sharon Brady – Assistant Director of Special Education, Lawton Public Schools
11. Tammy Will – Teacher, Morrison Public Schools
12. Dr. Eleanor Goetzinger – Behavior Specialist, Oklahoma City Public Schools
13. Jerry McConnell – Director of Facility Operations, Moore Norman Technology Center
14. David Prater – Oklahoma County District Attorney
15. Kim Carter – Director, Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security
16. Brandon Clabes – Midwest City, Chief of Police
17. Captain Tim Dorsey – Captain, Edmond Police Department
18. Darry Stacy – Cleveland County Commissioner, District 2
19. Gary Rudick – Chief of Police, Tulsa Public Schools Campus Police
20. Major James Blocker – Director of EMS, Oklahoma City Fire Department
21. Gary Armbruster – Principal Architect, MA+ Architecture
22. Phil Armstrong – Assistant Pastor, Metropolitan Baptist Church, Tulsa

“There is nothing more important than doing everything in our power to keep Oklahoma's kids safe,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman.  “I am tremendously thankful for these subject matter experts—they are generously giving of their time to help us build safer schools and address the fundamental problems that could potentially put our kids in harm’s way.  I appreciate their service.”

"Our children are our highest priority," said House Speaker T.W. Shannon.  "I applaud these men and women for volunteering their time and expertise to help safeguard the future of Oklahoma. My hope is they will strike the right balance between public safety and personal liberty."

 “We must have a serious, fact-driven discussion about the safety of our schools,” said Senate Democratic Leader Sean Burrage.  “The formation of the non-partisan Oklahoma Commission on School Safety is an important first step.  I applaud those who have stepped up to serve our state in this capacity, and I look forward to the findings of the commission.”

"As a parent, I never want to second-guess the safety of my children while they are at school," said House Democratic Leader Scott Inman.  "The Oklahoma Commission on School Security's work will be timely and necessary if we want to proactively create learning environments where our children feel safe, secure, and fearless throughout their education.  I look forward to the commission's findings and know these experts will provide us with a meaningful road map to ensuring our schools are secure."

Commission members will hold various meetings, the first set to convene at the Oklahoma State Capitol, Room 419-C, on January 22 at 1:30 p.m.  Meeting agendas will include speaker testimony and discussion on the various factors related to school security including but not limited to public safety, mental health, training, engineering and local control.  The commission plans on providing suggestions and legislative recommendations regarding school security for the 2013 legislative session.

Oklahomans across the state are encouraged to submit their ideas for study in the commission by calling the Lt. Governor’s office at 405-521-2161.

Lamb, Legislative Leaders Announce Commission on School Security

Lt. Governor Todd Lamb, Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman and House Speaker-elect T.W. Shannon Thursday announced the formation of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security.

Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb

“In light of recent events, the time has come for us to assess the current school security system in Oklahoma,” said Lt. Governor Todd Lamb. “The Oklahoma Commission on School Security will provide an avenue for some of Oklahoma’s finest to collaborate towards a common goal. With the right knowledge and resources, we can effectively provide a safer school climate for our most precious commodity.”

Senate Democratic Leader Sean Burrage and House Democratic Leader Scott Inman have agreed to work with Republican Leadership to form a non-partisan commission. The purpose of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security will be to study a number of school security factors and to provide suggestions and possible legislative recommendations for the 2013 legislative session. Some initial issues to be discussed within the commission’s study will include current school safety measures, local control and local empowerment and mental health.

“The events of the previous week have deeply impacted us all,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman. “This is a time to grieve for the families in Newtown, to hug our kids a little bit tighter, and a time to ask ourselves how we can respond appropriately. I am encouraged by the non-partisan, thoughtful approach shown my colleagues in legislative leadership. Together, we believe Lt. Governor Lamb, as an expert in physical security from his time defending the President of the United States, is particularly equipped to lead our Oklahoma Commission on School Security – I am thankful for his leadership and willingness to serve.”

Speaker-Elect T.W. Shannon

“What took place in Newtown is unfathomable and disturbing,” said House Speaker-elect T.W. Shannon. “Our schools have too often become soft targets for those who have no regard for the precious lives of our children and those who we trust to educate and care for them. As a father and Speaker-elect, there is no higher priority than the safety of our children. Now is the time for us to review the safety needs of our public and private schools. The purpose of this commission is to put forth ideas that will address the safety needs of both our metropolitan and rural school districts.”

“What took place in Newtown almost a week ago, an act of pure evil, is still so hard for all of us as Americans to understand,” said Senate Democratic Leader Sean Burrage. “As legislative leaders in Oklahoma, we feel the right thing to do is come together in a non-partisan way to look at how we might be able to create safer classrooms for our kids. We must address the physical security of our school facilities, as well as very challenging mental health issues. I look forward to the recommendations of the Oklahoma Commission on School Security.”

Rep. Scott Inman, Democrat Leader

“In light of the tragic events in Connecticut last week I welcome the opportunity for us all to come together in a bipartisan manner and discuss ways in which we can best protect the children of Oklahoma,” said House Democratic Leader Scott Inman. “I appreciate the willingness of the Speaker-Elect to solicit input and consider solutions that are not simply knee-jerk reactions to the tragic events of Sandy Hook Elementary School. I look forward to working in the days ahead with the Speaker-Elect on this important issue.”

Lt. Governor Lamb began the initial steps in increasing school security when he was in the Oklahoma State Senate and the principal author of the Oklahoma School Security Act. The act, Senate Bill 1941, required schools to practice lockdowns two times a year. The measure additionally defined electronic communication as a form of bullying. The Oklahoma School Security Act also created a place on regional Homeland Security Advisory boards for school administrators.

As a former United States Secret Service Agent, Lt. Governor Lamb will bring his law enforcement experience and serve as chair of the commission, working with legislative leaders to appoint commission members in the coming weeks. Various backgrounds will be represented on the commission to include homeland security, local police, local school personnel, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and mental health.

Lamb New Chair-Elect of National Lt. Governors Association

Oklahoma City, OK—Lt. Governor Lamb joined thirty of the nation’s state and territorial seconds-in-command at the annual National Lt. Governors Association (NLGA) meeting where he was named Chair-Elect to the NLGA’s executive committee. Lamb previously served as Treasurer of the organization, elected shortly after entering his first term in office. 

“Serving in leadership at the NLGA has been an honor and I am humbled that my fellow Lt. Governors have chosen me as Chair-Elect,” said Lamb. “Oklahoma is a vibrant state full of hardworking people and I enjoy the opportunity to serve as its ambassador.”

The NLGA Executive Committee, elected annually through a Nominating Committee and approval process, is the governing body of NLGA. The Chair and Chair-elect are of opposite political parties and rotate annually. The Executive Committee meets at least twice a year.     

The 2012 meeting in Chicago marked the 50^th anniversary for the NLGA.  In addition to Lt. Governor Lamb’s election, Lt. Governor Tim Murray of Massachusetts was elected Chair of the NLGA and Lt. Governor Elizabeth Roberts of Rhode Island was elected Treasurer. 

Last year, Lt. Governor Lamb was able to secure the 2013 annual NLGA conference in Oklahoma.

“We are very excited to have Lt. Governor Lamb serve as Chair-Elect,” said Julia Hurst, Executive Director of the NLGA. “Lt. Governor Lamb is a great advocate for his home state and we look forward to hosting our annual conference in Oklahoma next summer.”

“I look forward to another great year with the NLGA as we prepare for them to visit Oklahoma in 2013,” added Lamb.

Lamb and OKDHS join forces to promote Think.Prevent.Live. campaign for summer

Oklahoma City -- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services has teamed up with Lt. Governor Todd Lamb, the Child Death Review Board and the Department of Public Safety to remind Oklahomans about the dangers facing children during the summer months in hopes of preventing needless child deaths.

OHP Lt. Jim Cherry & Oklahoma Lt. Governor
Todd Lamb demonstrate the dangers of a hot
car with a thermometer that had been placed
in a vehicle for 45 minutes. The temperature
read 110 degrees!!

"Children die each year from being left or becoming trapped in hot cars, and by drowning and not being supervised," said Sheree Powell, Communications Coordinator for OKDHS. "These are deaths that could have been prevented and we want to make all Oklahomans aware of what they can do to stop these tragedies before they happen."

In the first half of 2012, 10 children have died in the U.S. from being left in hot cars. Since 2005, 12 Oklahoma children have died from hyperthermia - in a hot car. Half of those children were still strapped in car seats left in the car by a distracted caregiver. The other half were children who became trapped in the automobile during unsupervised playtime. There were two separate occurrences in which siblings died when they became trapped in a hot car.

So far, no Oklahoma children have died this year from being left in a hot car but there have been some close calls.

"We all know how quickly our cars heat up," said Powell. "A child's body temperature rises at a rate at least three times faster than an adult's. Hyperthermia can occur on days with relatively mild (70 degrees F) temperatures and vehicles can reach life-threatening temperatures very rapidly."

Safety tips to keep children safe:

THUNDER UP

By Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb

The Thunder basketball team has a big impact on the state of Oklahoma.  Not just because we are excelling in the NBA playoffs.  But also because it helps to point the nation – and the world - back to us.  The Thunder is an example of what a true team looks like, providing role models for our youth to follow.  The Thunder also helps to unify us as a state, constantly reminding us that Oklahoma is strong and has a bright future ahead. 

The Thunder’s outreach is phenomenal.  With more than one million fans and followers strong worldwide on Facebook and Twitter, the Thunder has become a household name.  Thunder season ticket members reside in 51 Oklahoma counties and 26 states.  And the Thunder has been on national television countless times this season.  In Oklahoma City alone, television ratings have doubled over last season.  The NBA All-Star game was seen in 200 countries in 40 languages.  Kevin Durant (All-Star MVP), Russell Westbrook and Western All-Star Coach Scott Brooks and his staff brought international exposure to Oklahoma.  All who watch are reminded that the Thunder is Oklahoma’s team.  This drives recognition to our state and all the great things that are taking place here despite the difficult economic climate in our nation. Oklahoma has become a beacon of light in these challenging times and the Thunder is part of that equation.

The Thunder is a good example for our young people and a clear picture of a team that is one in action and heart.  All of the players are very active in the community, several through their own initiatives, all of them through the Thunder’s own community platform which includes education, fitness and other programs.  To date, the Rolling Thunder Book bus which features players distributing books to elementary schools has given out nearly 50,000 books.

The Thunder also helps draw our state together.  As Oklahomans, we stand behind our team win or lose. One example is the Blue Alliance initiative.  This organization has 100 captains and 7,300 members across the state.  The participating cities span from Blackwell to Marietta (North to South) and Goodwell to Roland (West to East).  The fans who are apart of Blue Alliance are official ambassadors of the Oklahoma City Thunder.  The captains have committed to spread the Thunder spirit in their hometowns by recruiting more members, coordinating watch parties and sharing Thunder news.

Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb

I enjoy using the Thunder as a metaphor of Oklahoma’s success, and using Twitter to make subtle points.  During the sweep of the Dallas Mavericks in the first round of playoffs, I was quick to draw a comparison on Twitter: “OKC beats Dallas...and our NBA team is better!”  And during the second round of playoffs against Los Angeles, it was great to point out the lengths Oklahoma has come to get where we are today: “Oklahoma: better than Steinbeck; better than Lakers. Go Thunder!”

A great big thank you to the Thunder for everything they do as a team for our great state.  Thunder up, Oklahoma!

Lamb Issues Broad Policy Report on Eve of Session

OKLAHOMA CITY - Lt. Governor Todd Lamb published his 2012 Policy and Issues Report last week. The report contains ideas, advice and suggestions from Oklahomans from every corner of the state. 

In the year since Lamb took office he has visited all 77 counties asking one important question, “What impedes your opportunity for growth?”

Attendees of Lamb’s town hall meetings have included people from all walks of life according to the report. The report is a distillation of what Lamb has heard from those who have attended his meetings. 

The report has been presented to Governor Mary Fallin and legislative leaders before the 2012 legislative session begins. 

The report is divided into two parts. The first is Lamb’s vision for the future of the state. The second contains the many ideas gleaned from his conversations while traveling the state. 

The income tax, education, water and the creation of jobs are among the several topics covered in the report. 

Lamb says the report is intended to spark “further debate and discussion” by legislators as they look for ways to make Oklahoma more competitive economically. 

“Oklahoma is the best state in the nation,” Lamb said. “It’s time we compete with other state in something besides football.”

An online copy of the report can be obtained on the Lt. Governor’s website. 

Board of Equalization funds OHLAP, but designates use of agency reserve

By Patrick B. McGuigan at CapitolBeatOK.com (Published: 20-Dec-2011) 

The Oklahoma Board of Equalization (BOE), chaired by Governor Mary Falllin, met today (Tuesday, December 20) to fulfill statutory requirements to give preliminary certification to general revenues available for appropriation during the 2012 Legislature. The seven-member panel fulfilled its required function at its regularly-scheduled gathering, but also unexpectedly boosted anticipated funds available for general appropriation by $6 million. 

Mid-way through the meeting, during what was expected to be a routine discussion as prelude to BOE approval of $63 million for “Oklahoma’s Promise” scholarships administered by the Higher Regents, Treasurer Ken Miller asked staff about the program reserve fund. That’s when members of the Board were told the reserve was about $15 million.

(The Office of State Finance later confirmed the precise figure is $14,530,300.85, a sum that should increase when additional dollars are transferred shortly.) 

The information provoked discussion and introspection among members of the board. Legal counsel for the state government confirmed the BOE could approve less than the $63 million requested, but fully fund the program request by specifying that some of the reserve could be used for the difference. 

Miller and others on the board made it clear they supported “full funding.” At the same time, Miller articulated a view, apparently shared by every member, that “a more rational reserve balance” seemed in order. It was clarified in discussion with staff and counsel that the reserve may only be used for scholarship awards, and not for other purposes. 

In the end, state Auditor & Inspector Gary Jones moved, and Treasurer Miller seconded, a motion to fulfill the $63 million request for funding of the higher education scholarships, directing $57 million from general revenue and the remaining $6 million from the OHLAP reserve. 

Lt. Governor Todd Lamb Completes 77 County Tour

Oklahoma City—Lt. Governor Todd Lamb announced this week that he completed his visit to each of Oklahoma’s 77 counties within his first year office. The Lt. Governor’s town hall in Latimer County this week marked his final stop on his tour around the state. This is the Lt. Governor’s third complete lap around Oklahoma, with each of his county visits serving a purpose. This is Lt. Governor Lamb’s first official 77 county tour in this office and his third 77 county tour during his career.

“These stops were not just setting foot in each county, but instead included purposeful and productive visits with town leaders and various citizens who wanted their voices heard,” said Lt. Governor Lamb. “Having been to every county before, this was also a great opportunity to revisit old friends and those I have worked with in years past. It is important to get outside of the Capitol and have personal, face to face conversations in every single county. That experience is invaluable.”

As a result of his various community meetings and town halls, the Lt. Governor is compiling a policy report that he will present to the Governor and legislative leaders. In January, this report will reflect the ideas and suggestions of various Oklahomans the Lt. Governor met across the state. The Lt. Governor heard several good ideas that will be a part of the policy report.

Some of those ideas include addressing fraud in Oklahoma’s Worker’s Compensation System, lowering the personal income tax and assessing transportation needs.

Oklahomans have always had an entrepreneurial and innovative spirit that continues to move Oklahoma forward. The thoughts and ideas the Lt. Governor heard on his tour are no exception. Oklahoma is on the cusp of a renaissance. Our best days lie ahead.

Senator Childers takes oath, begins service

The newest member of the Oklahoma State Senate is now officially on the job. Sen. Greg Childers was officially sworn in during a special ceremony in the Senate Chamber on Wednesday. Among the many friends, relatives and supporters attending the State Capitol ceremony were Childers’ wife, Melanie, and sons Cameron, 12, Connor, 8 and Cole, 6, who joined Childers on the floor for the oath of office.

“I am extremely humbled to have been entrusted with this responsibility, and I do not take it lightly,” said Childers, R-Del City. “I will do everything in my power to make my district and this state the best they can be for all our citizens, and that means creating more jobs, better economic opportunities and a great quality of life.”

Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb Hosts Nelson Fundraiser Tuesday, Oct. 25

Governor Fallin Issues Proclamation Supporting Early Childhood Literacy

Sept. 26-30 declared Early Childhood Awareness Week for state of Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday Governor Mary Fallin proclaimed the week of Sept. 26 through Sept. 30, 2011 as Early Childhood Awareness Week in Oklahoma and stressed the importance of supporting early childhood literacy in the state.  Together with Reach Out and Read Oklahoma, she encouraged parents to read daily to their child from an early age to prepare them for school success.

“Reading with your children is a fun, family activity that helps young learners develop the language skills they need to succeed in kindergarten and throughout their entire school career. I applaud Reach Out and Read Oklahoma and I encourage all parents to spend as much time as they can reading with their young children,” Fallin said.

Governor Fallin reads “Green Eggs and Ham”
to a group of students

After reading a proclamation, Gov. Fallin read “Green Eggs and Ham” by Dr. Seuss to a group of pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students from St. John Christian Academy.

Neuroscientists report that 90 percent of brain development occurs before a child enters kindergarten, and 30 percent of Oklahoma’s kindergarten students are not performing at the kindergarten grade level.

Reach Out and Read Oklahoma is a nonprofit organization that promotes early childhood literacy and encourages families to read together to help the child build basic language skills that will prepare them to learn how to read before they reach kindergarten.

“A child’s brain develops a tremendous amount throughout the first five years of their lives, and it is our responsibility as adults to prepare our children and give them the tools they will need to succeed,” said Steven Davis, senior state director of Reach Out and Read Oklahoma. “It is our goal that by increasing awareness of early literacy in the state, more children will perform at or above grade level and will continue to thrive through school and into their adult lives.”

Lt. Governor Todd Lamb

In celebration of the proclamation, Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb read to a group of young children at OU Children's Physicians Building this morning.

“It is my honor to participate in Early Childhood Awareness Week,” Lamb said. “It is very important that we teach the young children of Oklahoma the importance of literacy and how it can have a positive influence in their everyday lives. I look forward to reading to these children, and I encourage parents all across Oklahoma to read to their children tonight before bed.”

About Reach Out and Read

Reach Out and Read is an evidence-based, national nonprofit organization that promotes early literacy and school readiness by giving new books to children and advice to parents at regular pediatric checkups. The program allows children to take home a new, age-appropriate book after every checkup from 6 months through 5 years. For more information on Reach Out and Read Oklahoma, visit www.reachoutandreadok.org.

Click here to view the proclamation

Lt. Governor Lamb Elected to National Position by Fellow Lt. Governors

Oklahoma City—At the recent annual conference for the National Lt. Governor’s Association (NLGA), Lt. Governor Todd Lamb was elected to serve as treasurer of the NLGA Executive Committee.

“The Lt. Governor was elected to this position bi-partisanly by his peers,” said NLGA Executive Director Julia Hurst.

“Oklahoma continues to have a vision of growth that moves our state forward and gives us recognition nationwide,” said Lt. Governor Lamb. “The opportunity to not only represent Oklahoma in the NLGA, but also champion who we are and what makes our state great is an honor. I am honored to be elected by my fellow Lt. Governors and to be a strong ambassador on behalf of Oklahoma on a national stage.”

“As an NLGA leader, Lt. Governor Lamb will work with his peers across the nation to find and foster multi-state and regional solutions to problems.” said NLGA Chair Nebraska Lt. Governor Rick Sheehy. “Through NLGA, the nation’s lieutenant governors discuss shared concerns and seek to influence national dialogue.”

In March of this year, Lt. Governor Lamb was able to secure the 2013 annual NLGA conference in Oklahoma.

The NLGA executive committee meets about three times a year and is responsible to chart the course of policy issues and work to be pursued by the nation’s second-highest state and territorial officeholders. In addition to its specific duties, the committee will also address issues of mutual concern to all members. The position is a one-year term with Lt. Governor Lamb serving until July of 2012.

NLGA is a bi-partisan organization promoting regional collaborations and problem solving for almost 50-years. See www.nlga.us.

Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb Declares State of Emergency Due to Wildfires

Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb

At the request of Governor Mary Fallin, Lieutenant Governor Todd Lamb today declared a State of Emergency for 33 Oklahoma counties due to extreme or exceptional drought conditions and the associated wildfires, which threaten the lives and property of the people in this area. 


Counties included in the State of Emergency are: Alfalfa, Beaver, Beckham, Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Carter, Cimarron, Comanche, Cotton, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield, Garvin, Grady, Grant, Greer, Harmon, Harper, Jackson, Jefferson, Kingfisher, Kiowa, Love, Major, Roger Mills, Stephens, Texas, Tillman, Washita, Woods and Woodward. 


This declaration may be amended to include additional counties as conditions warrant.


“These counties have struggled to see relief from our current drought, and with Oklahoma’s high winds, conditions have unfortunately been ideal for devastating wildfires,” said Lt. Governor Lamb.  “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families going through this difficult time.  Declaring this emergency will provide aid to these struggling Oklahomans as they prepare to rebuild and restore what was lost.”


Already more than 10 fires have been reported throughout the state causing evacuations in some areas. Continuing drought conditions will likely cause additional fires in the following weeks.


This Executive Order marks a first step toward seeking federal assistance should it be necessary.


Note: The Oklahoma Constitution provides that when the governor is out of the state the lt. governor is acting governor. 

LT. GOVERNOR LAMB LANDS NATIONAL LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR’S ASSOCIATION ANNUAL CONFERENCE TO OKC

Lt. Governor Todd Lamb

Yesterday Lt. Governor Todd Lamb secured the National Lieutenant Governor’s Association (NLGA) annual meeting in Oklahoma City in 2013.

“There could not be a better time to visit Oklahoma,” said Lamb. “Voted the number one recession proof city, and named one of the best places to launch a small business, Oklahoma City has experienced a true renaissance.”

In his invitation to host the 2013 conference, Lamb gave a formal bid presentation that showcased Oklahoma City and what we have to offer visitors from across the nation. The NLGA’s national conference is set to be held in Puerto Rico in 2011, followed by Chicago in 2012, both of which went through a similar bidding process.

“As Oklahoma’s Lt. Governor, I look forward to working with the NLGA and the rest of my colleagues to strengthen our nation and our states,” Lamb said. “I am excited for the opportunity to host the NLGA – both for the benefit of the association and the state of Oklahoma.”

Earlier this month, Lt. Governor Lamb was named to the NLGA’s executive committee, serving as South Region Chair. The South Region includes Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

The NLGA is made up of Lt. Governors from across the nation. They meet in a different state each year to reassess the needs of the states, brainstorm for ways to meet those needs and move the states forward.

Lt. Governor Lamb Named to Leadership Position by National Lieutenant Governors Association

Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb

Lt. Governor Lamb was named this week to the leadership committee for the National Lieutenant Governors Association (NLGA).  Lt. Governor Lamb will now serve as Chairman of the South Region for the NLGA Executive Committee.

“Lt. Governor Lamb was appointed bi-partisanly from among his peers,” said NLGA Executive Director Julia Hurst. “This affirmation of him by NLGA leadership speaks to the immediate and positive impact he made among his peers.”

The South Region includes Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

“Oklahoma continues to have a vision of growth that moves our state forward and gives us recognition nationwide,” said Lamb.  “The opportunity to not only represent Oklahoma in the NLGA, but also champion who we are and what makes our state great is an honor.”

NLGA’s leadership committee is responsible for charting the course of issues and training to be pursued by the nation’s second-highest state officeholders. In addition to its specific duties, the committee will also address issues of mutual concern to all members.

“Through the National Lieutenant Governors Association, lieutenant governor colleagues across the nation work to share ideas and best practices that help each state in their work,” says Maryland Lt. Governor Anthony Brown, the NLGA Chair.  “The position of lieutenant governor is one through which innovative partnerships can be formed to exert influence and deliver substance to the constituents of the states and territories.” 

NLGA is a bi-partisan organization promoting regional collaborations and problem solving for almost 50-years. See www.nlga.us.