LEGISLATIVE COLUMN Sen. Green is praying for fire victims

From the Desk of Oklahoma Senator Grant Green | March 24, 2025

My heart goes out to all Oklahomans, especially those in Senate District 28, who have been impacted by the devastating wildfires that ravaged the state. My family and I are praying for the families who have lost loved ones and those who are caring for injured family members.

I’m also thinking of the Oklahomans who have lost their homes, businesses, and cherished belongings in the fires. During this challenging time, please know that you are not alone. Our communities will get through this together. Please don’t hesitate to contact my office if you need assistance or if I can help connect you with local recovery resources. I’m here to support you in any way that I can. I’m also deeply grateful to the firefighters, first responders and local volunteers who quickly jumped into action to help.

The governor declared a state of emergency in 12 counties, including Lincoln, Logan and Pottawatomie, to expedite relief efforts. The American Red Cross still has a 24-hour shelter at the Luther Community Center for anyone needing assistance. Officials from the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and FEMA are assessing damage statewide. Residents are urged to report their property damage at damage.ok.gov to improve recovery efforts. As you seek contractors for home and business repairs, please be cautious and ensure that any workers you hire are properly registered with the state. Unfortunately, disasters can attract predatory individuals looking to take advantage of vulnerable residents. For more information, visit the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board at oklahoma.gov/cib.

In state Capitol news, the Senate passed bills to increase oversight of electric transmission projects after overwhelming opposition from residents led to the cancellation of a federal plan for a massive transmission corridor across Oklahoma. Senate Bill 279, which I authored, requires transmission developers to get permission from the Oklahoma Corporation Commission for each electric transmission facility. The bill also requires developers to notify local communities and hold public meetings for feedback on proposed transmission facilities. This legislation protects landowners’ rights, and I’m glad the Senate passed it unanimously. I also supported similar legislation from my colleague, Sen. Todd Gollihare, that prevents developers from using eminent domain for high-voltage transmission projects unless the Corporation Commission grants approval. This ensures Oklahoma elected officials, who are accountable to voters, have a say in vetting these projects. His bill also prevents the use of eminent domain for wind, solar, battery storage and hydrogen energy facilities.

Last week, I was privileged to attend the Oklahoma Youth Expo in Oklahoma City, the world’s largest youth livestock show. It provides 4-H and FFA students a chance to showcase their skills and has a $25 million economic impact on the region, benefiting the entire state.

On another note, the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust recently awarded Tryon a health incentive grant to purchase action-based learning equipment for the public library. The Oklahoma Water Resources Board also recently awarded the Chandler Municipal Authority a $2.65 million grant to improve wastewater infrastructure as the Iowa Tribe develops a new hotel and casino. Although most people don’t think about wastewater infrastructure in their day-to-day lives, it is essential for business development and economic growth. I’m grateful for these local investments.

It is a pleasure and a privilege to serve the people of Senate District 28. Don’t hesitate to contact my office if I can be of assistance. Call 405-521-5547 or email Grant.Green@oksenate.gov