Week 11: First Bill Signed by Governor

I’m excited to report that the Governor signed HB 1071, which has become known as the Paeway Bill! This is my first bill that will be law, and it will take effect November 1st. It will increase the speed limit on Oklahoma turnpikes from 75 to 80 miles per hour and on certain state highways from 70 to 75 miles per hour.  

Two other bills I authored have passed the Senate: HB 1070 and HB 2281. I enjoyed working with Sen. Sharp and Sen. Brooks on getting these bills passed. HB 1070 clarifies language in statute about special elections for congressional vacancies in even-numbered years. Because there was a Senate amendment for further clean-up language, the bill will have to be reconsidered in the House. HB 2281 adds evading a law enforcement officer in the context of a felony pursuit that endangers the general public to the list of dangerous crimes. This bill now heads to the Governor’s desk. 

Since we’re past the committee consideration process, we’ve been on the House Floor all week to discuss Senate bills. I passed SB 700 off the House Floor. This legislation updates how a legal signature can be obtained as a reflection of changes in modern technology, specifically blockchain. I enjoyed working with Sen. Montgomery on getting this bill passed. It also heads to the Governor’s desk. 

We had many Lawtonians at the State Capitol during the past couple of days. On Tuesday, Leadership Lawton Fort Sill Class XXIX was here for Capitol Day, and it was great to get lunch with all of them. I also got lunch on Wednesday with Holly and Elizabeth who were here for 4-H Day. Additionally, Juanita Pahdopony was recognized on Tuesday during the annual Governor’s Arts Award ceremony. Finally, current OSSM student Nitya Arekatla shadowed me on Thursday to learn more about the legislative process.

​Today, we remember the 168 lives that were lost 24 years ago in Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma Standard means that all us fight for each other and that we are there to help one another no matter what. The inscription on The Survivor Tree reads, “The spirit of this city and this nation will not be defeated; our deeply rooted faith sustains us...” 

I hope that you all of you have a wonderful and blessed Easter! 
If you’re interested in receiving newsletters and updates from me throughout the legislative session, please send me your email address. I’ll also regularly update constituents through my website: http://www.danielpae.com/news

​As always, I can be reached via email at daniel.pae@okhouse.gov and phone at 405-557-7374.