OPINION/COLUMN
What happens here at the state Capitol has a direct impact on the lives of everyone in this state. But many people may be surprised to learn that when proposed laws and budget bills are being discussed and debated in committee, the public really doesn’t have an opportunity to ask questions or voice their concerns. Those discussions and debates are limited to the legislators serving on a particular committee.
While the chair can decide to allow other experts, or even occasionally invite a citizen to speak, it’s usually only those who support the bill being considered – not those who oppose it. If you have concerns you want to share, you have to try to set up meetings with legislators, and even then, those discussions are not part of the public record.
That’s why we want to give you an opportunity to have your say about key issues we’ll be addressing during the 2026 legislative session. Last spring, Senate Democrats hosted a series of public meetings called Capitol Conversations, allowing Oklahomans to ask members about bills, the budget and other issues in the spotlight. We were thrilled by the response and that folks were willing to travel from all over the state to participate. This fall, we’ll host a new series of Capitol Conversations, giving you that opportunity to not only hear from legislators and experts in specific areas, but featuring more of your perspectives and priorities. We’re also excited to welcome House Democrats as partners for this upcoming Capitol Conversations series.
On Thursday, September 4, we’ll focus on education.
We’ll have a small panel of parents, educators, and superintendents who’ll discuss their biggest concerns and ideas for education, then we turn the mic over to members of the public to share what they want us to know about education.
Tuesday, October 7, we’ll focus on the budget – how we invest taxpayer dollars, what we’re spending those resources on, and how that whole process happens – but also, you’ll have the mic to tell us what you think the priorities should be. This is the chance for you to talk about how these decisions impact you, your family, your job, and give us ideas about how public dollars should be invested.
Our Capitol Conversation on Tuesday, November 18, will focus on bill ideas. We actually hear from constituents throughout the year who share their ideas for legislation, but this is another opportunity to share your thoughts.
Maybe you’d like to see an existing law amended or even repealed. You might have an idea for legislation to help us better address public health, support families, or create jobs. This is your chance to share those ideas during the window for drafting and filing legislation for the 2026 session.
Again, these meetings will be held in room 535 of the state Capitol, and each will begin at 5:30 p.m. If you have any additional questions, or can’t attend in person, you are welcome to submit your ideas and views in writing. Just send an email to: Julia.Kirt@oksenate.gov.
This is your chance to speak up and speak out.
We’re excited to meet with our fellow Oklahomans and hear what you have to say.
Onward!
