In response to Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt's State of the State address, Tulsa Regional Chamber President and CEO Mike Neal shared the following comments:

“We share the governor’s vision to make Oklahoma the easiest state in the country to start and grow a business. To create the most business-friendly state, Oklahoma must push business friendly policies and reduce burdensome regulations. The Tulsa Regional Chamber will continue to work with the governor, his cabinet and state legislators to further strengthen Oklahoma’s business recruitment and expansion tools. 

“We applaud the governor’s call to have an education system that meets our workforce needs. Innovative schools that prepare students for the future of our workforce will be crucial in continuing to attract major business expansion and retention to our state. We hope to see continued investments in our public and higher education systems during the upcoming legislative session with an emphasis on industry-based learning to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their chosen field. 

“We support the call to eliminate barriers for those who have served time to reenter the workforce. By removing the financial burdens and other cumbersome roadblocks, we will address workforce shortages and make it easier for formerly incarcerated individuals to become contributing members of society. 

“We are grateful for the increased enforcement and oversight of the medical marijuana industry the governor mentioned. This has been a concern raised by our members for several years, and we applaud the diligent work of law enforcement and the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority to implement the regulatory measures passed by the legislature and to ensure this industry is operating under the same rules as the rest of the business community. 

“Success in negotiating compacts with multiple tribal nations in recent weeks is an encouraging first step in creating a strong partnership between the State of Oklahoma and our tribal partners. We hope to continue to see progress in mending these relationships this year so that we can work alongside the State of Oklahoma and sovereign tribal governments to pursue positive outcomes for our region.  

“We are excited about the opportunities this session to position Oklahoma for long-term success. We at the Chamber are eager to work with all our elected officials to ensure northeast Oklahoma residents and businesses prosper.”