Happy Birthday Rep. Dorman!

I have to start my column off this week by thanking all those who have wished me a happy birthday. I turn 38 on September 18th and I have to say it’s been a great year.

We are seeing the the interim studies at the Capitol finally being scheduled. I have a study with several other legislators regarding autism coverage for children that will meet this week. This will look at possible solutions for assistance for families that are affected by autism and what can be done to help. We will have speakers discuss successes in other states, along with attempts that failed, and also bring in families who might have suggestions on changes in the law where assistance can be provided efficiently.

On Friday, I have my forum regarding alternative energy policies. I hope those of you interested in alternative energy sources and the possibility of the reduction of dependence on foreign oil will have the opportunity to make it up for this meeting. We have a great variety of guest speakers, ranging for the Oklahoma Secretary of Energy to businesses that have shifted to using CNG vehicles for their fleets. This should provide a great outlook on future trends and possible policies we can implement to help our nation. This will occur in the Senate Chamber in the Capitol from 9 AM to noon. Read more…

By Senator Jay Paul Gumm, D-Durant

President Kennedy said, “The great enemy of the truth is very often not the lie – deliberate, contrived and dishonest – but the myth, persistent, persuasive, and unrealistic. Belief in myths allows the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought.”

As we fought for health insurance coverage of children with autism, we fought a “persistent, persuasive and unrealistic” myth. The constant refrain from those who oppose helping these families is their opinion insurance mandates like “Nick’s Law” raise premiums and increase the number of people who are uninsured.

The insurance situation in other states unravels the arguments on which the opponents of “Nick’s Law” depend. First, compare the number of legislative mandates among several states. Then, in those states with more legislative mandates, one should look at the percentage of uninsured. Finally, one should examine premium costs in those states compared to Oklahoma. Read more…

Are Republicans learning? The public relations-impaired House GOP may be catching on! After having created a firestorm with their clumsy handling of autism-related issues in the last legislative session, the House is moving forward with an interim study of autism issues. Rep Kris Steele, one of the more skilled communicators in the legislature, is leading the effort. While we know the lazy reporters in the capitol pres corps will always seek to slant public opinion against them, and regardless of the merits of the legislation, today’s announcement is a good sign that the words “tone-deaf” and “Republican” may not show up in so many news reports.