OPINION/COLUMN
This past week, I had the pleasure of attending the 2025 Southern Legislative Conference in Birmingham, Alabama, alongside several fellow lawmakers from Oklahoma. The SLC is always a valuable opportunity to listen, learn and collaborate with colleagues from across the South, and this year’s meeting was no exception.
I served on the Human Services and Public Safety Committee, and our meetings were full of meaningful conversations on the challenges our states face. From public health to safety initiatives and everything in between, I came away with many new ideas and perspectives I hope to bring home to Oklahoma.
One of the best parts of the week was the chance to meet so many new people, other legislators, staff and policy experts from all over the region. These relationships matter and they help us share lessons learned and stay focused on finding practical solutions that work.
Birmingham was a wonderful host city. Its rich history, welcoming people and incredible food made the experience even more memorable. Alabama has seen remarkable economic growth in recent years, and it was inspiring to learn how cooperation and innovation helped make that happen.
On another note, I want to share a brief update on an issue that continues to be a concern here in Oklahoma, and that is vape enforcement. I have requested an interim study to explore how we can better enforce laws related to vaping, especially those that affect young people. We expect the ABLE Commission to be part of this conversation, and Assistant Director Lori Carter has indicated the agency will likely be called to testify. This study will help us better understand how enforcement is currently working and where improvements might be needed to keep our communities safe and healthy.
Summer is a busy time, but it’s also a season to reflect, reconnect and recharge. Even though the temperatures have been high, I hope everyone is finding time to enjoy this special time of year with family and friends. Stay cool, stay safe and thank you for the opportunity to serve.
I would love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns. My email address is cynthia.roe@okhouse.gov, or you can call my office at 405-557-7365.
Rep. Cynthia Roe, a Republican, represents House District 42 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. Her district includes portions of Cleveland, Garvin and McClain counties.
