Stitt seeks improved relations in third session

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt is hopeful for an improved relationship with his fellow Republicans in the Legislature when the 2021 session begins on Monday.

The CEO-turned-governor enjoyed success pushing through much of his agenda during his first session. However, the relationship grew strained last year after budget negotiations broke down and the Legislature wrote the state’s spending plan without him. In less than a year since the session ended, Stitt has replaced much of his top-level staff.

A number of bills have been introduced that would limit how much power the governor has to respond during a health emergency as the coronavirus pandemic continues.