In the midst of the financial crisis facing Oklahoma it is easy to become mired in negative thoughts. While we do face a major challenge in crafting a budget at the Legislature, let us take a few moments to look at some of the recent positives that have taken place during the recent years.
The number of structurally deficient bridges on our state highways has decreased from 700 to 340. We are on track to have them all repaired and/or replaced by the end of 2019.
Oklahoma has dropped from 42nd to number 33rd in the nation in regards to the number of frivolous lawsuits filed annually after passing meaningful lawsuit reform.
Oklahoma businesses have saved more than $300 million in workers compensation costs since reforming the system in 2012, and our workers are getting faster medical care and returning to the job sooner.
The unfunded liability of Oklahoma’s pension funds, used to pay our retired teachers and state worker, has decreased from $16 billion in 2011 to just $8.8 billion today.
We have a better educated workforce with the number of degreed or certified workers increasing by more than 2,700 annually during the last few years. The number of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) graduates has increased by 28 percent during the last five years.
Our fourth graders have shown the third most significant gains in reading ability for the whole United States.
We now have the highest level of funding for mental health services for our citizens in state history. Mental health problems and addictions are often simultaneous conditions in many patients, and we have passed historic legislation that is starting to make a difference in the number of Oklahomans abusing and dying from prescription drugs.
Last, but certainly not least, for the first time in many years we have no Oklahoma National Guard troops deployed overseas.
Oklahoma is not alone in facing severe budget issues. All states with significant dependence on energy revenue sources (such as North Dakota, Louisiana, Texas and New Mexico) are facing similar issues. With perseverance, strong leadership and tough decision making, we will survive and become stronger. Meanwhile, as the above points illustrate, all is not gloom and doom.
Thanks for allowing me to serve as your state representative. I can be reached at dougcox@okhouse.gov or 405-557-7415.
The post Think Positive: by Dr. Doug Cox, State Rep District #5 appeared first on Grand Lake Business Journal.com.