Governor Ceremonially Signs Poultry Producer Protection Bill

Rep. John Pfeiffer

by Rep. John Pfeiffer

I attended a ceremonial bill signing earlier this month for Senate Bill 1424, which protects state poultry producers from civil lawsuits if they already are following a state-approved waste disposal plan.

If  producers are found in violation of their nutrient management plan, they could face increased fines of up to $10,000 a day. But ultimately the bill’s purpose is to protect poultry farmers who live in our state who are already following the law from frivolous lawsuits that would slow or stop their production.

When answering questions on this bill on the House floor, I heard some concerns about the potential effect on water quality. I explained that because of better business practices by the state’s poultry farmers and stronger regulations and oversight we now have in place, the water quality in our state has improved.  We’ve significantly decreased the phosphorous and nitrogen going into our streams because of these efforts. This bill will not change that trajectory.

This measure was formally signed into law by the governor on May 31, but Gov. Stitt annually holds ceremonial bill signings to allow lawmakers and others involved in particular pieces of legislation to take part in this part of the process. I was happy to author this bill in the House, and even happier to see it signed into law. I appreciate the opportunity to participate in the ceremonial signing as well.

Also at the Capitol recently, the Senate convened in special session at the governor’s request to approve his appointment of Jennifer Henderson Callahan for an eight-year term on the Board of Regents for the Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical Colleges. The board governs Oklahoma State University, Langston University, Panhandle State University, Northeastern A&M College and Connors State College. Callahan is a lawyer who said she grew up in 4-H and FFA and has a master’s degree in agriculture economics from OSU. She has leased ranches in seven different counties in Oklahoma and has been involved in all aspects of the cattle business. I’m sure she’ll do very well on the board.

The Senate Majority Caucus also met to elect a new president pro tempore designee. They selected Sen. Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, to lead them over the next legislative session. Paxton will still have to be formally elected by the next Senate after the November elections, but he’s a great pick for working with his fellow Senators, House leaders and the governor as we all seek to move the state forward.

It’s an honor to serve the folks of House District 38. As always, if you have concerns about bills, or problems I can assist you in solving, please reach out to me at [email protected] or call my office at 405-557-7332.

John Pfeiffer serves District 38 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Grant County and parts of Garfield, Kay, Logan and Noble counties.