Advocacy Handbook

How-to Guide

Legislative Action Political Action

OHA Advocacy Handbook

Table of Contents

Section I – Grassroots Involvement

OHA’s Advocacy Efforts Legislative Process VoterVoice 2014 OHA Council on Policy and Legislation Effective Grassroots Involvement

Making Phone Calls Making Effective Phone Calls

Letter Writing Tips Writing Effective Letters Forms of Address for Federal, State & Local Government Officials

Letter Writing Campaigns Effective Letter Writing Campaigns

Meeting With Elected Officials Setting Up Effective Meetings with Elected Officials

Media Relations Tips Effective Media Relations

Section II – Oklahoma’s Elected Officials

Oklahoma Senate Description of the Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore‐ Senator Brian Bingman Members of the Oklahoma Senate Key Oklahoma Senate Health Care Committees and Subcommittees

Oklahoma House of Representatives Description of the Oklahoma House of Representatives House Speaker‐Representative Jeff Hickman Members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives Key OK House of Representatives Health Care Committees and Subcommittees

Hospitals By Oklahoma Districts Alphabetized List of Hospitals & Their State Senator & Representative

Congressional Delegation Oklahoma’s Congressional Delegation

Biographical Sketch‐ U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe Biographical Sketch‐ U.S. Senator Tom Coburn Biographical Sketch‐ U.S. Representative Jim Bridenstine Biographical Sketch‐ U.S. Representative MarkWayne Mullin Biographical Sketch‐ U.S. Representative Frank Lucas Biographical Sketch‐ U.S. Representative Tom Cole Biographical Sketch‐ U.S. Representative James Lankford Key Congressional Health Care Committees

Hospitals by Congressional Districts U.S. House of Representatives’ Districts

Legislative Calendars 2014 Legislative Deadlines‐ 2nd Regular Session‐ 54th Legislature 2014 U.S. Senate/House Calendar

Glossary of Terms Glossary of Legislative Terms

Miscellaneous Information How a Bill Becomes Law Important Telephone Numbers Helpful Legislative Web Sites

Section III – OHA‐PAC OHA‐PAC Campaign Cover Letter to Mail with Materials OHA‐PAC Brochure and Pledge Card 2014OHA‐PAC Board Members

Solicitation Guidelines A Guide to Effective OHA‐PAC Solicitation

Launching Your Campaign Suggested Steps for Launching an Effective OHA‐PAC Campaign OHA‐PAC Supply Request Form OHA‐PAC Contributor Check‐Off Sheet OHA‐PAC Hospital Coordinator Designation Card

Frequently Asked Questions Supporting an Effective OHA‐PAC‐ “Frequently Asked Questions”

Sample Letters Sample Letter to Department Heads From CEO Sample Letter to Hospital Trustees From CEO Sample Letter to Hospital Volunteers From CEO

January 1, 2015

Dear OHA Member Executive:

As we begin this new calendar year, it is also time to kick off our association’s annual OHA‐PAC fundraising drive. As you know, this particular way of participating in the political process is not just a necessary activity; it is also a good business decision for our member hospitals. It remains a key and practical way to express our thanks and assistance to those legislators who have stepped forth and actively supported issues and bills of vital interest to Oklahoma hospitals.

Our OHA‐PAC must be in a strong financial position to make meaningful contributions, especially in an election year. OHA‐PAC is already heavily involved in plans to support legislators who cast their votes to reauthorize SHOPP, the hospital provider fee, and several other important issues (such as lawsuit reform) during the 2013 legislative session. Let us not forget that since the initial enactment of SHOPP in July 2011, Oklahoma hospitals have received a net benefit of more than $485 million through December 2013.

As the 2014 elections approach incumbents seeking re‐election are assertively fundraising now because of changes to Oklahoma’s laws that moved political party primary elections to June 24, less than a month after the end of the 2014 state legislative session. OHA‐PAC and AHA‐PAC must be actively making significant contributions well before the June primary election to give incumbents the ability to prepare an effective campaign. Primary elections, in which candidates from the same party face off, can be where we lose thoughtful lawmakers supportive of our causes.

OHA’s campaign to accept federal funds to cover the uninsured, perhaps through Insure Oklahoma, is making a difference toward changing the conversation around the goal of getting support from the governor and the Legislature. Certainly, this is a long hill to climb. However, public opinion polling is showing important progress in our favor. Currently 54% of all likely Oklahoma voters favor accepting federal funds, a positive movement of five points!

Along with our partners, OHA is seeing increasing support among lawmakers for accepting federal funds. We cannot afford to lose those lawmakers in the 2014 elections. If groups like ours don’t provide early, significant financial support for these lawmakers who face challenges, they have no reason to stand up for us!

Your active support of OHA‐PAC is vital to our efforts!

If every eligible hospital met their OHA‐PAC goal, we would have almost $192,000 available to contribute to candidates this year. In 2013, OHA‐PAC received almost $60,000 in contributions. We are thankful for those who have made the personal commitment, but we cannot rely upon only 44 hospitals and 237 hospital employees who participated in OHA‐PAC in 2013 to carry the load for an industry that employs more than 67,000 statewide. We urge you to make a commitment in 2014 to make sure your hospital meets or exceeds its own goal. The goal levels are below:

Under 25 beds ...... $500 26‐50 beds ...... $750 51‐100 beds ...... $1,500 101‐200 beds ...... $2,500 201‐400 beds ...... $4,000 Over 400 beds ...... $6,000

Please make OHA‐PAC a priority in the upcoming year. Hospital CEOs with successful campaigns all agree that it starts with “the ask.” Don’t forget to ask your management team and medical staffs to join OHA‐PAC. If you need assistance with talking points or presentations by staff on this topic, don’t hesitate to ask us. We are counting on you to complete the advocacy equation.

For more information, please feel free to contact Lynne White, Director of Government Relations and Political Action at [email protected], or Melanie Morriss, Legislative Assistant, at [email protected].

Sincerely,

Craig W. Jones James Berry President, OHA President, OHA‐PAC

Grassroots Involvement

OHA Legislative Process

Prior to and during each legislative session, OHA’s Council on Policy and Legislation meets with OHA staff to help determine the Association’s position ‐ for, against, or monitor ‐ on a particular legislative issue. The Council’s recommendations are then forwarded to the OHA board of trustees for review and approval. In those rare instances when contentious issues arise and a consensus by the OHA membership cannot be reached regarding the position OHA should take on an issue, OHA staff will “represent” each side of the issue rather than advocating a particular position, for or against.

Throughout the legislative session, OHA will provide legislative updates via HOTLINE, and calls to action via VoterVoice when your quick response and involvement is needed. OHA maintains copies of all bills, so you may contact us at any time to request a copy of those bills you are interested in reviewing. Also, bills may be viewed online at www.oklegislature.gov. During session, OHA staff tracks legislation daily via a computerized legislative reporting system. OHA has a daily presence at the State Capitol during the legislative session.

Serving as your voice at the state Capitol and in other local legislative arenas is one of the most important roles the Oklahoma Hospital Association plays for its members. And, we extend that role on national legislative and regulatory fronts through our active partnership with the American Hospital Association in Washington, D.C.

AHA’s advocacy staff has built a solid reputation on Capitol Hill and has a good working relationship with members of Congress. Our ongoing partnership with the AHA, coupled with the grassroots support from our members, enables us to be an effective player in the political arena.

If you have questions regarding your local, state, or federal involvement in the political process, please contact Craig Jones, Lynne White, Sandra Harrison, Melanie Morriss or any OHA staff member.

VoterVoice

This year, OHA will provide members with opportunities to effortlessly communicate with elected officials as their voting constituents, through an internet‐based program for grassroots advocacy. “VoterVoice” is a program that allows OHA staff to quickly and easily organize grassroots lobbying campaigns for all members, or select groups within our member database.

BENEFITS

 Immediate 10‐fold increase in member participation in grassroots activities.  With real‐time activity reports you will know who contacted whom, enabling you and your board to measure the success of your grassroots campaigns.  Significantly decrease the time needed to launch and manage multiple grassroots campaigns— from hours to just minutes.  35% cost reduction for targeted bulk email and fax communications to grassroots contacts.

FEATURES

 Grassroots contact information collected for use in future grassroots activities.  Pinpoint targeting of swing votes, legislative committees or regulatory agencies.  Up‐to‐date contact information on all state and federal legislators and committees.  Registration form for collection of user contact information.  One‐click logon for repeat visitors.  Wizard‐driven advocacy system.  Ability to send messages to home and business officials.  Ability to send messages by email, fax, or letter.

HOW IT WORKS

Example: a senate bill that would have an impact on workforce recruitment is scheduled to go before the full senate for a vote.

OHA members dealing with the challenges of an insufficient workforce need to let their Senators know how this action will affect their hospital, and how important it is to them as voting constituents, that their views be represented.

1. OHA staff sends an email to all CEOs, executive and human resources staff, and RN administrators, explaining the issue and call to action. 2. When OHA members receive the email, it instructs them to click on a link that takes them to the VoterVoice page on the OHA website. The first time members access VoterVoice, they are prompted through a user registration process. Future visits to the site will require a one‐click logon with user i.d. and password. 3. The program wizard prompts members through a few simple steps that allow them to see the targeted officials and the message. 4. The message, which has been crafted by OHA staff, is previewed as it will appear to their senators. 5. The member will then hit the ‘send message’ button, and the message will be sent to their senators on Capitol Hill.

2014 OHA Council on Policy and Legislation

Chuck Skillings, Chair (2015) Chris Hammes (2016) Chief Executive Officer SE Vice President & COO OKC St. Anthony Shawnee Hospital INTEGRIS Health Shawnee Oklahoma City

Vacant Jay Johnson (2016) President & CEO SW Duncan Regional Hospital Duncan

Kent Rogers (2014) David Keith (2016) Chief Executive Officer SE Chief Executive Officer SE Mercy Hospital Ada McAlester Regional Health Center Ada McAlester

Randy Segler (2014) Jeff Nowlin (2016) Chief Executive Officer SW President & COO Tulsa Comanche County Memorial Hospital St. John Medical Center Lawton Tulsa

David Stire (2014) Ex‐Officio Members: Chief Executive Officer NW Anne Roberts Jane Phillips Medical Center Director, Legislative Affairs Bartlesville INTEGRIS Health Oklahoma City

Rick Ferguson (2015) James Berry Chief Executive Officer Tulsa Chief Executive Officer Oklahoma Surgical Hospital Purcell Municipal Hospital Tulsa Purcell Representing OHA‐PAC

Cathy Hibbs (2015) Richard Boone Chief Executive Officer OKC President Deaconess Hospital St. John Medical Center Foundation Oklahoma City Tulsa

Jimmy Leopard (2015) Tyra Palmer Chief Executive Officer NE Government Relations Wagoner Community Hospital Hillcrest Health Care System Wagoner Tulsa

Stan Tatum (2015) Chief Executive Officer NW St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center

Enid

OHA Legislative Staff

Craig W. Jones Lynne Stewart White President Director of Government Relations & Political Action Oklahoma Hospital Association Oklahoma Hospital Association 4000 Lincoln Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73105 4000 Lincoln Blvd Oklahoma City, OK (405) 427‐9537 73105 (405) 427‐9537 E‐mail: [email protected] E‐mail: [email protected]

Sandra Harrison Melanie Morriss Coordinator, Advocacy & Regulatory Affairs Government Relations Assistant Oklahoma Hospital Association Oklahoma Hospital Association 4000 Lincoln Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73105 4000 Lincoln Blvd Oklahoma City, OK (405) 427‐9537 73105 (405) 427‐9537 E‐mail: [email protected] E‐mail: [email protected]

AHA Legislative Staff

Tucker Bonner Richard J. (Rick) Pollack American Hospital Association American Hospital Association Regional Executive Executive VP, Advocacy and Public Policy C/O Oklahoma Hospital Association 325 Seventh Street N.W. 4000 Lincoln Blvd Washington, D.C. Oklahoma City, OK 73105 (202) 626‐4625 [email protected]

Tom Nickels American Hospital Association Senior Vice President, Federal Relations 325 Seventh Street N.W. Washington D.C. (202) 626‐2314

Making an Impact

Effective Grassroots Involvement

Public policy decisions made at the local, state and federal level have an impact on Oklahoma hospitals and the care they deliver to their patients. These policy decisions are influenced directly and indirectly by the opinion of the general public and the local citizens that will be affected.

Grassroots involvement in your community means educating and organizing members of the community to make sure that all officials – candidates and those who hold office – are aware of the needs of your hospital and the impact of legislative actions on your institution.

The ability to organize and activate your "grassroots" advocates – individuals directly connected to the hospital or in the larger community beyond your walls – is even more important than ever before. Organized grassroots advocates are key to any hospital's success in influencing federal, state and local public policy.

Developing a strong, broad grassroots base of individuals who will actively engage in legislative advocacy efforts on behalf of your hospital is essential, especially since hospitals are uniquely positioned to be a catalyst for community and grassroots organizing efforts.

Hospitals already enjoy broad community support and have access to constituencies that have the potential to wield significant influence – both in numbers and clout – if they are organized and involved in public policy issues. Trustees, physicians, administrative staff, volunteers, patients and their families, employees, vendors, other health care entities, donors, supporters from the business and philanthropic communities and media representatives are all potential partners in your advocacy efforts. If you were to count the number of individuals for a single hospital and multiply that number by the more than 5,000 hospitals in the country, then organize and inspire them, we would have an overwhelming grassroots movement!

What Needs to be Done?

Many hospitals already work to organize and involve key internal and external advocates in their grassroots efforts. Every hospital should commit to an organized, sustained effort to build a grassroots base of support for participation in advocacy efforts. Usually, getting the support you need is relatively simple and requires communicating and educating those within and outside of your hospital.

A few simple techniques for building grassroots support includes:

Regularly communicating public policy issues to key advocates: trustees, physicians, administrative staff, employees, patients, volunteers, vendors, donors and other community supporters; Developing a system you can use in order to quickly call key advocates to action, either selectively or en masse when critical issues arise at the federal, state or local level; Encouraging individuals in your hospital community to take an interest in policy issues by sponsoring public events with public officials; and Making certain that your hospital's media and public relations efforts support your grassroots efforts and goals.

By organizing your hospital community for grassroots action, you will do much more than generate political power for the issue of the day. Over the long term, you will position your hospital as an opinion leader on those issues affecting your community's health and the delivery of health care.

By organizing a strong grassroots base, you will contribute to the continued fulfillment of your hospital's mission – today and tomorrow. Cultivating your grassroots contacts will help your community by giving them a voice in public policy issues which inevitably impact them.

This section of your notebook provides you with some tools and ideas for making an impact in the political arena, regardless of whether or not you are dealing on a one‐to‐one basis or are launching a full‐fledged grassroots or letter‐writing campaign.

Making an Impact

Making Effective Phone Calls

If you don’t know your senator or representative’s telephone number in Oklahoma or in Washington, D.C., refer to “Oklahoma Senate or “Oklahoma House” tabs; or you may reach their offices by calling one of the following numbers:

Oklahoma House of Representatives (405) 521‐2711 1(800) 522‐8506 Oklahoma Senate (405) 524‐0126 U. S. Capitol Switchboard (202) 224‐3121 Oklahoma Governor’s office (405)521‐2342 Oklahoma LT. Governor’s office (405)521‐2161

For Whom Should You Ask?  Ask for the senator or representative if you have a relationship with him or her.  If you don’t know the senator or representative, tell the person who answers the phone the issue you are calling about and ask to speak with the legislative assistant who handles that issue. For most issues, you will probably want to speak with the legislative assistant or the health legislative assistant, if one is assigned.  Follow up your phone call with an email to the person you talked with and send a copy of the email to OHA Staff.  If you cannot reach a legislative assistant, leave a concise message with the person who answered the phone. Legislative and congressional offices do count the number of calls they receive on an issue—pro and con—and relay that information to the senator or representative.

What Do You Say?  Identify yourself by name, address and hometown within their legislative district.  Identify the bill by number, name and author (i.e., House Bill 1235, Rep. Steele).  Clearly state the action you would like the senator or representative to take on the issue (vote for, vote against, offer an amendment, delete a provision, etc  Focus on a single issue, making two or three key points in your phone call.  Have talking points—or your own notes—in front of you when you call, in order to stay focused on the message you want to deliver. OHA will provide you with talking points when we ask you to communicate with your elected public official.

 Localize the issue to demonstrate the impact on your hospital and the legislator’s own constituents. Give specific examples.  Ask for your legislator’s view or position on the bill or issue.  Show appreciation for past votes of support. Be positive.

Tips:  Keep your call brief—not more than three or four minutes.  If you are asked a question you cannot answer, tell them you will get the answer and get back to them. If they request written materials, supply this promptly since decisions are often made very quickly during legislative sessions. If you need help finding the answer, contact OHA.  Leave your name, telephone number and e‐mail address with the staff person you have spoken with in case they have any questions later.  Record the name of the legislative assistant you spoke to and put their name in your phone book. Next time, you can ask for him or her by name and begin building a relationship. Staffers are more likely to listen to and return phone calls from people they know.

Making an Impact

Writing Effective Letters

 Write the letter in your own words on your personal stationery or hospital letterhead. A single, well‐written letter from a constituent is more likely to influence a legislator's decision than an avalanche of mail. Modify sample letters provided to deliver your own personal and unique message.

 The letter can be handwritten or typed, and can be mailed, faxed or E‐mailed. You should fax or E‐mail when time is limited.

Opening Paragraph:

 State the subject of your letter.  Identify the bill by number, title, and authors, if available.  Identify yourself and your hospital, health system or organization.

Example: "I am president of University Medical Center, the largest teaching hospital in the state," or "I am a member of the board of trustees of Memorial Hospital, the only hospital serving six rural counties."

Body of Letter:

 Explain the issue simply and clearly; use as many facts as possible to support your arguments.  Briefly state the 2‐3 most important reasons for your position on the bill or provision.  Explain how the issue could affect your organization and community, directly and indirectly.  Be specific in stating what you want your elected official to do.  Request an answer. Ask the individual to let you know his or her position on the issue.  Sign your name and provide your address.

Tips:

 Write to the legislators who represent your hospital or health system, and to the legislators who represent where you live.  Be brief. Limit the length of your letter to no more than two pages, and preferably only one page. Summarize your position at the beginning of your letter and then expand on specifics in the remainder of the letter.  Be reasonable, constructive and polite.  Thank elected officials for their support when they vote in your favor. Also let them know in a polite manner if they voted contrary to your position and ask if you can count on them the next time.  Send a copy of your letter to the Oklahoma Hospital Association, 4000 Lincoln Boulevard, Oklahoma City, OK 73105, or email a copy of your letter to Melanie Morriss at [email protected] so we can coordinate our lobbying activities with the American Hospital Association's and with your grassroots efforts.

Forms of Address for Federal, State and Local Government Officials

Addressee Form of Address Salutation Legislator, State The Honorable John Smith Dear Representative Smith: Oklahoma House of Representatives

Senator, State The Honorable John Smith Dear Senator Smith: Oklahoma State Senate

City Councilman The Honorable John Dear Councilman Smith: Smith______City Councilman

Commissioner The Honorable John Smith Dear Commissioner Smith:

Governor The Honorable John Smith Dear Governor Smith: Governor of Oklahoma

Lieutenant Governor The Honorable John Smith Lieutenant Governor Smith: Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma

Mayor The Honorable John Smith Dear Mayor Smith: Mayor of ______

President, United States The President Mr. President:

Vice President, United States The Honorable John Smith Dear Mr. Vice President:

Forms of Address for Federal, State and Local Government Officials

Addressee Form of Address Salutation Representative, United States The Honorable John Smith Dear Mr. Smith: United States House of Or Representatives Dear Congressman Smith: Senator, United States The Honorable John Smith Dear Senator Smith United States Senate House Speaker, United States The Honorable John Smith Dear Mr. Speaker: Speaker of the House of Representatives Cabinet Officers (such as the The Honorable John Smith Dear Mr. Secretary: Secretary of Health & Human Secretary of Health and Services and The Attorney General) Human Services Dear Mr. Attorney General:

The Honorable John Smith Attorney General of the United States

Making an Impact

Effective Letter-writing Campaigns

Letter‐writing campaigns to support your hospital's position can help inform, educate and influence decision makers. Letters are read by legislators and they are counted. Letter‐writing campaigns are valuable tools in developing a broad base of support for your position.

Targeting a Letter-writing Campaign

Letter‐writing campaigns work at more than one level. You will need to be able to generate a detailed, focused letter from your organization's leaders, including your board chair, and to mount a mass mail campaign from your entire network of hospital advocates.

Your campaign should target decision makers who can help sway the outcome of a particular issue. At times, you will want to make sure that as many legislators as possible are hearing from their constituents. On other occasions, you will want to get letters to specific legislators whose votes are key to the process.

Implementing Your Letter-writing Campaign

Organizing a letter‐writing campaign is an effective way of demonstrating to your elected officials that your issue has broad support.

Write an action alert. An action alert will provide potential hospital advocates with background information, suggested actions to take and a list of individuals to target.

 Briefly describe the issue and ask for support of your campaign. Most often OHA will provide you with talking points.  Call for immediate action and provide simple steps for the advocate to follow.  Provide a sample letter that advocates can use as a guide, but encourage them to express their own personal perspective. Individualized, thoughtful letters carry the most weight. Include the names and addresses of legislators you are asking them to contact.  When issues are time sensitive send legislators an e‐mail.

Distribute the alert broadly. Mail the alert to potential allies. You can often get mailing lists from other organizations or ask them to mail your alert.

 Use VoterVoice to send an alert to your e‐mail contacts.  Pass out the alert at meetings, events or wherever likely allies might gather.  Some of your key audiences should include:

 Members of the hospital's board of directors  Employees  Physicians  Volunteers  Patients, former patients & their family members  Elected community officials  Community and business leaders  Vendors  Other health care entities in the community  Donors  Media representatives

When brainstorming about where to look for support, you should ask yourself two questions:

1. Who else is or should be concerned about this issue? 2. Who influences legislators and will also support this issue?

Making an Impact

Setting Up Effective Meetings With Elected Officials

Face‐to‐face meetings are a very effective method of communicating with senators, representatives and their staffs. These meetings are also important in building long‐term relationships with your elected officials.

Where Do You Meet?

You have some options:

You can call the official's local office and make an appointment to see him or her when they are back in their district or in the state;

You can invite them to tour your hospital; or

You can meet with your member of Congress in Washington, D.C., when Congress is in session.

How Do You Request a Meeting?

Contact the official's local or Washington, D.C. office and ask to speak with the appointment secretary/scheduler.

Explain who you are, the organization you represent and the reason you want a meeting with the senator or representative. Ask the scheduler how you can arrange a meeting. If you are requesting a meeting in the state, you may be referred to the district or local office.

If you are inviting the legislator to visit the hospital, a letter of invitation should be sent by the CEO and/or board chairman (or a board member or other "hospital family member" who has a personal relationship with the legislator).

 Send the letter to the office recommended by the scheduler.  Ask the scheduler what amount of lead time is needed to schedule a hospital visit and to send your invitation far enough in advance.

During an Office Meeting:

Introduce yourself and any others in your group, stating where you are from and what health care organizations you represent.

If you are going with a group, decide in advance who will lead the discussion and what key points you want to make.

Keep your meeting short and simple. Get to the point and briefly outline two or three key reasons for your position on a particular piece of legislation or the issues that prompted your meeting. Stay focused on the two or three key messages you want to leave with the legislator. It is easy to get off track and run out of time, particularly when dealing with seasoned politicians.

Give examples of how the issue affects your organization and the senator or representative's constituents.

Answer any questions asked of you, but if you don't know the answer, tell the legislator that you will get back to him or her promptly with an answer.

Leave behind a one‐page fact sheet or position paper on your issue to remind the legislator or staff of the purpose for your visit. Include your name, telephone number and email address on the paper in case there are follow‐up questions.

Offer yourself as a resource to the legislator and the staff in responding to health care questions.

Planning an Effective Hospital Tour:

You have a great opportunity to educate your legislator and get acquainted by inviting him or her to tour your hospital. These tours introduce legislators to the constituents for whom your hospital provides jobs, and allows the official to put into perspective the real people, jobs and issues which affect voters in his district.

Tours can be mutually beneficial to both you and your public official, since you both develop contacts for the future. Setting up a tour requires some advanced planning and a bit of flexibility, but is well worth the effort.

Since the typical legislator is very busy while the Legislature or Congress is in session, he will probably prefer to tour your facility during one of the legislative or congressional recesses. The legislative and congressional calendars are located behind the Legislative Calendars Tab.

Prior to the Tour:

Inform all employees of the upcoming visit.

Do some homework on your legislator's background. A short biography of the state legislator or congressman can usually be requested from his office or OHA; this can be shared with your employees or key individuals. Find out what committees and subcommittees your guest is on. Are any of these committees considering legislation related to your interests? In short, show the same interest in his activities that you expect him to show in yours.

Try to arrange the visit around a luncheon or breakfast, with the tour of the hospital either preceding or following it. There should be a limited number of your hospital or system's representatives participating in the meal function.

Conducting an Effective Hospital Visit:

In addition to following all of the principles for conducting an office meeting:

Extend the length of the meeting to include a brief tour of two or three important patient care areas. Allow about an hour or hour‐and‐a‐half for the tour, including a "sit‐down" meeting. Choose areas that demonstrate the impact of your hospital on the health and well‐ being of the legislator's constituents. Walk the tour yourself in advance to make sure everything is in order and that you deliver your intended message.

Provide opportunities for the senator or representative to meet key hospital staff—a physician, a hospital trustee who knows the legislator, and a hospital employee such as a nurse or social worker who works directly with patients. Inform participants in advance so they can be prepared.

Prepare a fact sheet on your hospital for the senator or representative. Include information such as: number of inpatients and outpatients served; number of staff, employees and volunteers; average payroll; amount of indigent care provided; Medicare and Medicaid patient load; the economic benefit your hospital provides to the community, etc. Don't overwhelm the legislator with materials during the tour.

Notify the OHA about the planned visit. We can provide you with background information on the senator or representative and can assist you in compiling statistics or information needed to illustrate your concerns.

If possible, photograph the legislator's visit and include a story on the visit in your hospital's publications. If you'd like to receive local press coverage, coordinate this coverage with the legislator's press secretary.

After the Meeting or Tour:

Always send a "thank you" note, thanking the legislator for his or her time and briefly restating your issue. Include any follow‐up information that was promised, along with an open‐ended invitation for a return visit. Compliment any of his aides, by name, who helped coordinate the visit.

Send a "thank you" note to those aides who helped set up the meeting. You may be working closely with them in the future, so don't let their deeds go unnoticed.

Be sure to send the senator or representative copies of any media coverage generated. If a photograph of the official was taken during the hospital visit, send them a copy if available.

Provide feedback about your meeting to OHA and the AHA so that we may adjust our lobbying strategies, if needed.

Tips:

Be brief.

Be honest.

Be prompt, but be flexible. Senators and representatives may be late for meetings due to their full schedules, or they may get interrupted during your meeting.

Don't be disappointed if you end up meeting with staff instead of the senator or representative. Legislators depend on advice from their staff because it is impossible for them to follow all the issues themselves. Staff are gatekeepers and they can sometimes be the real driving force on an issue.

Making an ImpactEffective Media Relations

Effective Media Relations

An essential element of any grassroots campaign is using the media to inform your public. The key to getting positive media attention is having an understanding of the media.

Reporters and editors respond best to news stories and ideas that:

 Have a local angle;  Have widespread interest;  Feature well‐known people; and/or  Have human interest.

A story always has a better chance of making the news if it hits home in the community. For example:

As the federal government faces health care reform, local hospitals are sure to be impacted.

 What will be the local impact of a proposed cut in Medicare programs?  How will health affiliations or mergers and acquisitions impact the local hospital?  What decisions about hospital operations will be made on the local versus federal level?

Be familiar with the types of stories each publication or station covers, and look for angles that will fit the media's need for news.

Tips for Dealing With the News Media:

 Remember that most media representatives are trying to do their job by reporting a newsworthy event fairly and factually, within a certain deadline.  Establish relationships with the media before you need them. Know their beats, their deadlines, how to spell their names correctly, and whether or not they prefer that you use mail, faxes, E‐mail or phone calls when you are sending a press release. Unless you have something to report that is very time sensitive, most reporters prefer that you mail press releases, then follow up with a phone call. If you need a listing of media outlets throughout the state and the names of reporters who work for these outlets, the "Finder Binder" and the annual Oklahoma Press Association's Media Directory are both good sources of current information. For more information on how to order these directories, call OHA.

 Serve as a resource person for media representatives, even when you don't need a story. Let them know they can contact you even if they aren't sure you are the best source for their story. They'll be appreciative of your help.  When a reporter calls for an interview, find out what questions they would like answered during the interview (to save you and them some time), what their deadline is, when they plan to run the story and in what format the story will appear (i.e. feature/news/tabloid supplement). If the interview is for broadcast, ask if it will be live or taped, and the length (i.e., will it be used for a 30‐ second sound bite or a one‐hour talk show?).  When you are in a situation that has national/international media focus, remember to treat local reporters as fairly or more fairly than those from out‐ of‐town. You have to live with the local media after those from out‐of‐state go home.

When You Are Interviewed:

 Focus on 3‐5 key points you would like to convey, starting and ending with the most important point. Include these key points in all press releases and interviews.  Avoid saying "no comment," or making "off the record" responses. If you can't divulge certain information, tell the reporter why you can't. And, tell them when you might be able to release more information. If you aren't prepared to comment at the moment you are asked to do so, tell the reporter you'd like to comment once you've had some time to review the information and the questions he or she would like answered.  If you don't know the answer to a question, say that you don't know. Try to find an answer and follow up with the reporter.  Never deal with hearsay. Deal with facts. Until something becomes a reality, avoid responding to a reporter's "what if" scenario.  Remember to keep your audience in mind when crafting your message. Keep your message simple, and unless the publication is a trade publication, avoid using health care jargon. Translate your message into English before a reporter arrives for an interview.

When we in health care talk about PPOs, IPAs, capitation, DRGs, UPLs, CMS, and fiscal intermediaries, we often lose our audience – starting with the reporter.

 Don't attack other organizations or competitors; this might become the focus of the rest of the interview.  Never, ever, ever lie to a reporter. Reporters keep track (as we all do) of people who have "burned" them and will remember it for many years; they will also share this information with colleagues.  When a reporter asks, "Do you have anything else to add?" take the opportunity to do so by reiterating your key message or anything you would like to emphasize.  Strive for dialogue with a reporter. Arguing with a reporter – even if you are right – doesn’t accomplish anything. Keep your message and your audience the focus of your thoughts during the interview.

 Do not ask to see the story before it is printed or aired. No reporter is ever required to do this and to ask appears unprofessional. However, your hospital spokesman should offer to verify quotes or facts, or to answer follow‐up questions.  Be brief. Be positive. Be patient. Be polite.

If You Are Ambushed by the Media:

The news media could arrive anywhere at any time in order to pursue a story. One likely place is in your hospital's parking lot. If you are "ambushed" outside your facility, you should attempt to deter the press and their "need" for an interview at that particular time, but do so in a helpful way. One technique you could use would be to acknowledge their presence, then smile and say, "I know you need information, and as soon as I am able to gather this for you, I will be happy to sit down and discuss this with you."

The odds of this statement appearing on the six o'clock news are much less likely to occur than if you seem agitated, are verbally abusive, and say "no comment" as you push your way through the crowd of reporters.

Television

Television provides an opportunity to reach a mass audience. Many different types of television programs offer potential for airing your messages:

 News broadcasts  Public affairs programs  Talk shows  Editorials  Public service announcements  Feature segments

Watch these programs to become familiar with the reporters and anchors, their interviewing styles and the types of stories they prefer. When you are interviewed on radio or television, keep your remarks brief and well structured. Your delivery and tone of voice is also very important; in the case of television, so is your appearance and gestures.

The following tips will make an appearance on the broadcast media more successful:  Rehearse the message in advance.  Dress conservatively. Never wear white and avoid jewelry that will flash and cause a distraction.  Never look for or talk into the camera. Try not to be conscious of the camera at all; the cameramen will get all of the shots that they need.

Radio

Most radio stations tailor their programming to very speciic and different audiences
from country and classical music lovers, to rock‐and‐roll fans and all‐talk enthusiasts. In recent years, many stations have expanded their news coverage and provide more air time for talk shows and call‐in programs which focus on community interests and other issues. This provides a wonderful opportunity to communicate through radio by coordinating your message to the station's audience.

 Radio stations should be notified of events through news releases.  News releases should be written for radio, in a style that is designed for on‐the‐ air delivery.  A hospital spokesperson should offer to participate in talk shows or community affairs programs, in order to inform the community about current health care issues.

Newspapers

Newspapers provide in‐depth coverage of stories and are particularly good for reaching decision‐makers who are interested in more than "headline" news that is available on television and radio.

 In addition to regular news and features, newspapers print editorials, commentaries, letters to the editor, investigative reports and opinion columns.  Newspapers have larger staffs to cover news.  They spend more time learning and explaining complex issues.  They appreciate all the documentation, facts and figures you can provide.  Since newspapers are in print, stories can be clipped, saved and used for other audiences that may have missed the initial publication.  Letters to the editor should be reserved for important issues. They should be thoughtfully prepared, based on fact, and should be between 100 400 words in length.

News Releases

Much of the news that is printed or broadcast originates from press releases. The release is a basic tool for generating publicity, and is a powerful public relations tool. It can serve one of the following functions:

 To publicize an issue or a story;  To provide background information of a news event; or  To announce an upcoming activity.

The well‐prepared news release must follow some guidelines, or it will end up in the editor's trash can, along with scores of others he or she receives each day.

The Lead. The first paragraph or two of a news release (the lead) must answer the "five Ws" and an "H" – who, what, when, where, why and how. This important information must be prominently placed to grab the editors' attention, since they don't have time to read through the entire release in order to get all of the facts.

The Body. A release should follow an "inverted pyramid" format, with information appearing in the order of its importance. The inverted pyramid allows an editor to easily cut the story as needed without losing the most important facts.

Tips When Writing a Release:

 Make it no longer than two double‐spaced pages.  Use short sentences and paragraphs.  Make certain facts are absolutely accurate.  Check for proper spelling of names.  Avoid jargon and technical terms, or explain them if they must be used.  Don't use abbreviations (i.e., CMS, UPLs, DRGs, PPOs) without indicating what they stand for in the first reference.  Write factually and objectively, avoiding personal opinions, editorializing and using adjectives  Insert pertinent quotes, specific examples and anecdotes which will localize the story.  Double space the release on plain white paper or letterhead.  The top of the release should include: o The name and telephone numbers (home and office) of the media contact and when they can be reached; o The date and time for the story's release (For Release, 9 a.m., April 2, 2014 or For Immediate Release); and o A short headline that describes the content at a glance.

 When there is more than one page, type "‐more‐" at the bottom of each page except the last.  Number each additional page.  End the release with the marks "###," "‐30‐," or "‐END‐."

News Conferences

A news conference is an excellent way to launch campaigns, announce important future events or a new service to the community, provide new information on a previous news story, or release the results of a study or survey.

The key to a successful news conference is to make sure there really is important news to announce. If you "cry wolf" too often with "no‐news" conferences, the media may not show up when you do have something important to say.

Notification. When justified, news conferences should be arranged by:

 Sending a news release to every community news outlet three to five days before the event (In urgent situations, notification can be handled by telephone.);  Directing the release to assignment editors, news directors and reporters, giving them the date, time, place and topic of the conference;  Scheduling the conference to coordinate with media deadlines; and  Making follow‐up calls the day before the conference, urging reporters to attend.

Logistics. Site arrangements are important aspects of a successful conference.

 Choose a location and room for the press conference that is large enough to accommodate the media, cameras and other equipment.  Make sure there are plenty of two‐ and three‐pronged electrical outlets for reporters' equipment (lights, recorders, cameras).  Provide a lectern that can hold several microphones.  If possible, display an appropriate logo in a prominent spot that does not have a glare.  Provide chairs for reporters, name cards for speakers and an easel for visual aids.

Visuals. Almost all news conferences should offer visual presentations for television cameras and print photographers.

 Display visuals prominently near the front of the room for easy reference by the speakers.  Keep visuals clean and simple. Remember, the visual may receive only two or three seconds of actual TV time.  Use colorful charts and graphs to demonstrate goals you've set and achieved.

Materials. Media kits should be prepared for reporters attending the conference (and to deliver afterwards to those who do not attend). They should include:

 A copy of the spokesperson's statement;  A news release detailing the topic;  Biographical information and photos of the speakers;  A fact sheet or brochure about the hospital; Reproductions of charts or graphs used; and  A slide of the hospital logo so TV stations can project it during the news story.

Preparation of Speakers. Before the news conference:

 Review the issues with the speaker(s).

 Take the role of a reporter and ask the spokesperson those difficult questions that may arise  Have other officers attend the news conference to provide expert information and moral support.

Tips When Conducting a News Conference:

 Double‐check the conference room about an hour before the event to make sure everything is set.  Unlock the room and set up chairs.  Provide a media sign‐in sheet so that you can follow up and make further contact.  Consider serving modest refreshments.  Start the conference on time; limit it to 30 minutes.  Introduce the speakers.  Conduct a question‐and‐answer session after the statement/conference.  Have a room available for follow‐up interviews.

Oklahoma’s Elected Officials

The Oklahoma State Senate

There are 48 members in the Oklahoma State Senate. By law, the Lieutenant Governor is president of the Senate, but the role is limited to presiding over special sessions and casting the deciding vote in case of a tie. The law also provides that the Senate will elect a President Pro Tempore, while the House of Representatives elects a Speaker of the House.

State senators serve staggered four‐year terms. Senators in odd‐numbered districts were elected in 2012. Those in even‐numbered districts will be elected in 2014.

Legislators are paid $38,400 annually, along with certain necessary expenses. The President Pro Tempore of the State Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives are paid an additional $17,932 annually, and the majority floor leaders and the minority floor leaders of each House are paid an additional $12,364 per year.

The Senate occupies the third, fourth and fifth floors on the east side of the rotunda in the state Capitol. Joint sessions are held in the House Chambers. The Senate Chambers are located on the fourth floor, with the visitors' gallery on the fifth floor.

President Pro Tempore Senator Brian Bingman District 12

Bingman was born on December 9, 1953, in Tulsa, OK. He received a BBA in Petroleum Land Management from the University of Oklahoma in 1976. He and his wife Paula, have three children, Annie, Blake and Rebecca.

He is currently employed by Uplands Resources Inc. in Tulsa as Vice‐President of Land and Operations.

Bingman served as Mayor of Sapulpa from 1992 ‐2004 and served in the House of Representatives for District 30 from 2004‐2006. He was elected to the State Senate in November, 2006.

Bingman continues active participation in the American Association of Petroleum Landmen, Tulsa Association of Petroleum Landmen and the Oklahoma Independent Producers Association. He is a member of Creek Nation. He also is a member of the Sapulpa Chamber of Commerce. He is an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Sapulpa.

His hobbies include playing golf, spending time with his family and his three grandchildren Blake, Merritt, and Ellie.

Oklahoma Senate Members

Mark Allen Patrick Anderson Don Barrington District: 4 District: 19 District: 32 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 415 State Capitol, Room 233 State Capitol, Room 232 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 19279 Hwy 271 P.O Box 5589 4506 N.E. Highlander Cir. Spiro, OK 74959 Enid, OK 73702 Lawton, OK 73507 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Randy Bass Stephanie Bice Brian Bingman District: 32 District: 22 District: 12 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 519 State Capitol, Room 531 State Capitol, Room 422 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 2606 NW Lake Front Drive P.O. Box 72094 1502 E. McKinley Ave. Lawton, OK 73505 Oklahoma City, OK 73172 Sapulpa, OK 74066 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Larry Boggs Josh Brecheen Rick Brinkley District: 7 District: 6 District: 34 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 529A State Capitol, Room 413 State Capitol, Room 238 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 831 Rt. 5, Box 318 P.O. Box 505 Wilburton, OK 74578 Coalgate, OK 74538 Owasso, OK 74055 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Corey Brooks Bill Brown Brian Crain District: 43 District: 36 District: 39 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 529B State Capitol, Room 412 State Capitol, Room 417B Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 26504 Santa Fe Avenue P.O. Box 140866 5918 E. 31st St. Washington, OK 73039 Broken Arrow, OK 74014 Tulsa, OK 74135 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Nathan Dahm Kimberly David Eddie Fields District: 33 District: 18 District: 10 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 534 State Capitol, Room 417C State Capitol, Room 530 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 2323 9597 N. 50th St. West P.O. Box 366 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 Porter, OK 74454 Wynona, OK 74084 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Kay Floyd John Ford Jack Fry District: 46 District: 29 District: 42 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 522A State Capitol, Room 424A State Capitol, Room 413A Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 60221 748 Brookhollow Lane P.O. Box 30714 Oklahoma City, OK 73146 Bartlesville, OK 74006 Midwest City, OK 73140 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Earl Garrison A.J. Griffin Jim Halligan District: 9 District: 20 District: 21 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 520 State Capitol, Room 428B State Capitol, Room 425 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 3806 Club View Drive 4001 Hwy 105 6321 W. Coventry Muskogee, OK 74403 Guthrie, OK 73044 Stillwater, OK 74074 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

David Holt Darcy Jech Clark Jolley District: 30 District: 26 District: 41 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 423 State Capitol, Room 528A State Capitol, Room 537 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 3029 Pine Ridge Road 1702 Harvey Brown Drive P.O. Box 2082 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 Kingfisher, OK 73750 Oklahoma City, OK 73101 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Ron Justice Kyle Loveless Bryce Marlatt District: 23 District: 45 District: 27 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 526 State Capitol, Room 237 State Capitol, Room 428 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 2209 County St. 2880 2905 SW 92 P.O. Box 647 Chickasha, OK 73018 Oklahoma City, OK 73159 Woodward, OK 73802 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Mike Mazzei Dan Newberry Susan Paddack District: 25 District: 37 District: 13 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 424 State Capitol, Room 234 State Capitol, Room 522 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: PMB 220 8898L S. Sheridan 4843 S. 81st West Avenue 500 S.E. County Road Tulsa, OK 74133 Tulsa, OK 74107 Ada, OK 74820 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Anastasia Pittman Marty Quinn Mike Schulz District: 48 District: 2 District: 38 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 518 State Capitol, Room 528B State Capitol, Room 418 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 17479 P.O. Box 235 16830 SCR 209 Oklahoma City, OK 73136 Claremore, OK 74018 Altus, OK 73521 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Ron Sharp Wayne Shaw Ralph Shorty District: 17 District: 3 District: 44 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 429 State Capitol, Room 235 State Capitol, Room 527A Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 3662 P.O. Box 6836 2105 SW 64 Shawnee, OK 74802 Grove, OK 74344 Oklahoma City, OK 73159 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Jabar Shumate Joseph Silk Frank Simpson District: 11 District: 5 District: 14 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 524 State Capitol, Room 536 State Capitol, Room 414 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 48514 P.O. Box 214 P.O. Box 1525 Tulsa, OK 74148 Broken Bow, OK 74728 Ardmore, OK 73402 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Jason Smalley John Sparks Robert Standridge District: 28 District: 16 District: 15 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 416 State Capitol, Room 521B State Capitol, Room 417A

Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 524 N. 9th Avenue P.O. Box 368 4732 Sundance Court Stroud, OK 74079 Norman, OK 73070 Norman, OK 73072 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Gary Stanislawski Anthony Sykes Roger Thompson District: 35 District: 24 District: 8 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 427A State Capitol, Room 426 State Capitol, Room 527B Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 6119 E. 91st St, Suite 300 1807 SW 24th Street P.O Box 191 Tulsa, OK 74137 Moore, OK 73170 Okemah, OK 74859 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Greg Treat Charles Wyrick Dr. Ervin Yen District: 47 District: 1 District: 40 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate Oklahoma State Senate State Capitol, Room 427 State Capitol, Room 523 State Capitol, Room 411 A Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 11328 Cimarron Drive 58500 E. 155th Rd. 9300 N. May, #400‐100 Oklahoma City, OK 73162 Fairland, OK 74343 Oklahoma City, OK 73114 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Key Oklahoma Senate Health Care Committees and Subcommittees

Business & Commerce: Dan Newberry Finance: Mike Mazzei Health & Human Resources: Rob Standridge Judiciary: Anthony Sykes Public Safety: Don Barrington Insurance: Bill Brown

Appropriations Chair: Clark Jolley

Subcommittees:

Health & Human Services: Kim David Public Safety & Judiciary: Greg Treat Education: Jim Halligan

The Oklahoma House of Representatives

The Oklahoma House of Representatives is composed of 101 members. Each year, the House begins convening at noon on the first Monday in February; its session must be finished by 5 p.m. on the last Friday in May. In odd‐numbered years, the regular session will also include one day in January. The House will meet at noon on the first Tuesday following the first Monday in January and will recess no later than five p.m. on the same day. Members of the House of Representatives serve two‐ year terms which are up every even‐numbered year.

The House considers the following types of legislation: 1) bills, which can become law if passed by both the House and the Senate and signed by the governor; 2) joint resolutions, which have the force and effect of law when passed by both the House and the Senate, but which may not become part of the statutes; 3) concurrent resolutions, which express the will of both the House and the Senate; and 4) simple resolutions, which express the will of the house of origin. Legislation which originates in the House is numbered consecutively beginning with "1001." (i.e. HB 1001, HB 1002, HB 1003, etc.)

Any member of the House may introduce legislation. Once prepared by the bill drafting department, the legislation is introduced (first reading) by being read in the House. The following day the bill is assigned to a committee (second reading) for study in the House. After study by the assigned committee, the bill is printed with any changes made by the committee, and is then considered by the full membership of the House (third reading). The bill is then printed to include any changes made by the House and is given to the Senate to repeat the same process. When it is returned to the House, any amendments made by the Senate are considered for final passage (fourth reading) and transmitted to the governor for his consideration. If the House and Senate are unable to agree with changes made by one or the other, a conference committee composed of members from both the House and the Senate is appointed to work out differences. The conference committee report goes to the House of origin and then to the opposite House for consideration.

The House Chamber is located on the fourth floor on the west side of the Capitol building. Members of the House of Representatives occupy offices on the third, fourth and fifth floors. The visitor’s gallery is on the fifth floor.

House Speaker Representative Jeff Hickman District 58

In February of 2014, the Oklahoma House of Representatives overwhelmingly elected Rep. Jeff Hickman as Speaker of the House.

As the elected representative of District 58, Speaker Hickman has represented Alfalfa, Major, Woods and northeast Woodward counties in the Oklahoma House of Representatives since 2004. Dedicated to conservative values, responsible government, rural economic growth and a champion for law enforcement and public safety Hickman has held a number of leadership positions prior to taking office as Speaker. He served as Speaker Pro Tempore from 2010 to 2012 and served as chairman of the Public Safety Appropriations & Budget Committee. He also served as a member on the Appropriations & Budget Committee, Energy & Aerospace Committee, and the Agriculture & Wildlife Committee.

Speaker Hickman is involved in his family’s farming and ranching operation in northwest Oklahoma and is the fifth generation of his family to own and farm land in Alfalfa and Woods counties. He is a graduate of Cherokee High School and holds a B.A. with Distinction in Journalism from the University of Oklahoma. Hickman was a Top 10 Freshman, Sophomore, Junior and Senior at OU and received the Letseizer Medal given to the top three student leaders. Upon graduation, Hickman served as assistant to the President & Athletic Director, Public Affairs Special Projects Coordinator, and as University Press Secretary in the Office of the President, before moving to Woodward where he was vice president of Omni Media Group.

Speaker Hickman and his wife, Jana, have three children and live in Fairview. Jana works as an occupational therapist in six school districts in northwest Oklahoma.

Oklahoma House Members

Gary Banz John Bennett Scott Biggs District: 101 District: 2 District: 51 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 433 State Capitol, Room 300A State Capitol, Room Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 11061 Canterbury Ln. 803 Pinto Ave. P.O. Box 601 Midwest City, OK 73130 Sallisaw, OK 74955 Chickasha, OK 73018 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Lisa Billy Mike Brown David Brumbaugh District: 42 District: 4 District: 76 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 440 State Capitol, Room 545 State Capitol, Room 400B Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 1412 P.O. Box 1460 P.O. Box 364 Purcell, OK 73080 Tahlequah, OK 74465 Broken Arrow, OK 74013 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Chad Caldwell Kevin Calvey Ed Cannaday District: 40 District: 82 District: 15 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 329A State Capitol, Room 301A State Capitol, Room 546 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 2010 Ramona Drive 4244 Cherry Hill Lane P.O. Box 98 Enid, OK 73703 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 Porum, OK 74455 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Dennis Casey Mike Christian Bobby Cleveland District: 35 District: 93 District: 20 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 337 State Capitol, Room 303 State Capitol, Room 240 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 43801 S. 338 Road 648 SW 41st Street 14250 108th St. Morrison, OK 73061 Oklahoma City, OK 73109 Slaughterville, OK 73051 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Josh Cockroft Donnie Condit Ann Coody District: 27 District: 18 District: 64 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 303A State Capitol, Room 502 State Capitol, Room 439 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 281 1109 East Street 104 S. State Hwy. 65 Tecumseh, OK 74873 McAlester, OK 74501 Lawton, OK 73501 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Jeff Coody Marian Cooksey Doug Cox District: 63 District: 39 District: 5 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 338 State Capitol, Room 409 State Capitol, Room 331 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 523 S. Bridge Blvd. 1105 Columbia Court 59877 E. 333Rd. Grandfield, OK 73546 Edmond, OK 73003 Grove, OK 74344 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

David Dank Lee Denney David Dank District: 85 District: 33 District: 74 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 435 State Capitol, Room 441 State Capitol, Room 408 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 6705 Reed Drive 834 E. sixth Street P.O. Box 2150 Oklahoma City, OK 73116 Cushing, OK 74023 Owasso, OK 74055 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Travis Dunlap Jason Dunnington Jon Echols District: 10 District: 88 District: 90 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 250A State Capitol, Room 500A State Capitol, Room 434 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 4936 Amherst Drive P.O. Box 1240 7701 SW 104 Bartlesville, OK 74006 Oklahoma City, OK 73101 Oklahoma City, OK 73159 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

John Enns George Faught Dan Fisher District: 41 District: 14 District: 60 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 434 State Capitol, Room 301B State Capitol, Room 248 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 1741 Pawhuska P.O. Box 2014 10024 N. Banner Road Enid, OK 73703 Muskogee, OK 74402 El Reno, OK 73036 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

William Fourkiller Randy Grau Claudia Griffith District: 86 District: 81 District: 45 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 542 State Capitol, Room 330 State Capitol, Room 539 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: Rt. 3 Box 2410 P.O. Box 31 5 Wildwood Ct. Stilwell, OK 74960 Edmond, OK 73083 Norman, OOK 73071 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Elise Hall Tommy Hardin Katie Henke District 100 District 49 District: 71 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 542 State Capitol, Room 336 State Capitol, Room 244B Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 8304 NW 69th Street 14002 S. Hwy 377 1441 E. 33rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73132 Madill, OK 73446 Tulsa, OK 74105 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Jeff Hickman Chuck Hoski n Scott Inman District 58 District 6 District 94 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 401 State Capitol, Room 509 State Capitol, Room 548 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 102 P.O. Box 941 P.O. Box 55532 Fairview, OK 73737 Vinita, OK 74301 Del City, OK 73155 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Dennis Johnson John Jordan Charlie Joyner District 50 District 43 District 95 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 407 State Capitol, Room 328B State Capitol, Room 436 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 3512 Spencer Road 1703 Professional Circle 3500 Bella Vista Drive Duncan, OK 73533 Yukon, OK 73099 Midwest City, OK 73110 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Chris Kannady Sally Kern Dan Kirby District 91 District 84 District 75 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 246A State Capitol, Room 304 State Capitol, Room 302A Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 3012 SW 95th Street 2713 N. Sterling Ave. 12208 E. 38th Pl Oklahoma City, OK 73159 Oklahoma City, OK 73127 Tulsa, OK 74146 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Steve Kouplen James Leewright Mark Lepak District 24 District 29 District 9 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 541 State Capitol, Room 204B State Capitol, Room 328A Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 5910 Garfield Rd. 29000 W. Hwy 66 3217 Heritage Drive Beggs, OK 74421 Bristow, OK 74010 Claremore, OK 74019 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

James Lockhart Ben Loring Scott Martin District 3 District 7 District 46 Party: Democrat Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 505 State Capitol, Room 539A State Capitol, Room 441 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 367 201 16th Place SW 2916 Stonebridge Court Heavener, OK 74937 Miami, OK 74354 Norman, OK 73071 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Kevin Matthews Mark McBride Charles McCall District 73 District 53 District 22 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 510 State Capitol, Room 248 State Capitol, Room 244 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 447 E. Latimer Street 2119 Riverwalk Dr. #167 2231 S. Mississippi Avenue Tulsa, OK 74106 Moore, OK 73160 Atoka, OK 73086 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Mark McCullough Jeannie McDaniel Randy McDaniel District 30 District 78 District 83 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 435A State Capitol, Room 508 State Capitol, Room 438 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 4125 Dogwood Place 1416 S. Marion Ave. 15513 Blue Mesa Drive Sapulpa, OK 74066 Tulsa, OK 74112 Edmond, OK 73013 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Jerry McPeak John Montgomery Lewis Moore District 13 District 62 District 96 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 503 State Capitol, Room 329B State Capitol, Room 329 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 932 208 SW 78th Street P.O. Box 250 Warner, OK 74469 Lawton, OK 73505 Arcadia, OK 73007 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Richard Morrissette Glen Mulready Casey Murdock District 95 District 68 District 61 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 543 State Capitol, Room 200 State Capitol, Room 301 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 6609 S. Harvey Ave. 660 W. 77th Place RR 1, Box 45 OKC, OK 73139 Tulsa, OK 74132 Felt, OK 73937 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Jason Murphey Jason Nelson Tom Newell District 31 District 31 District 28 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 437 State Capitol, Room 305A State Capitol, Room 302 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 1521 Olson Turn Trail 4117 NW 58th St. 35372 EW 1250 Guthrie, OK 73044 Oklahoma City, OK 73112 Seminole, OK 74868 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Jadine Nollan Terry O’Donnell Charles Ortega District 66 District 23 District 52 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 302 State Capitol, Room 242 State Capitol, Room 442 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 1220 N. Renaissance Drive 3614 N. Old Highway 66 1509 N. Main, PMB 292 Sand Springs, OK 74063 Catoosa, OK 74015 Altus, OK 73521 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Leslie Osborn Pat Ownbey Scooter Park District 47 District 48 District 65 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps State Capitol, Room 303B State Capitol, Room 334 State Capitol, Room 338 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 1200 2303 Cloverleaf Place Rt. 1, Box 84 Mustang, OK 73064 Ardmore, OK 73401 Devol, OK 73531 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

David Perryman Pam Peterson John Pfeiffer District 56 District 67 District 38 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 540 State Capitol, Room 405 State Capitol, Room 301 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 689 County Road 1365 6528 E. 101st PMB 422 5103 W. Highway 51 Chickasha, OK 73018 Tulsa, OK 74133 Tulsa, OK 74112 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Eric Proctor R.C. Pruett Brian Renegar District 77 District 19 District 17 Party: Democrat Party: Democrat Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 540A State Capitol, Room 501 State Capitol, Room 504 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 3932 E. 3rd Street P.O. Box 969 1550 S. Main Tulsa, OK 74112 Antlers, OK 74523 McAlester, OK 74501 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Mike Ritz Dustin Roberts Sean Roberts District 80 District 21 District 36 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 433B State Capitol, Room 302B State Capitol, Room 250 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 18574 E. 101st St. South 1802 Timberline Drive 324 E.2nd St. Broken Arrow, OK 74011 Durant, OK 74701 Hominy, OK 74035 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Michael Rogers Wade Rousselot Todd Russ District 98 District 12 District 55 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 300B State Capitol, Room 507 State Capitol, Room 300 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 1628 E. Boston Ct. 5298 E. 110th St. N. P.O. Box 98 Broken Arrow, OK 74012 Wagoner, OK 74467 Cordell, OK 73632 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Mike Sanders Seneca Scott Earl Sears District 59 District 72 District 11 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 205 State Capitol, Room 510 State Capitol, Room 432D Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 98 3138 E. 4th Street 1721 Cherokee Place Cordell, OK 73632 Tulsa, OK 74104 Bartlesville, OK 74003 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Mike Shelton Ben Sherrer Jerry Shoemake District 97 District 8 District 16 Party: Democrat Party: Democrat Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 539 State Capitol, Room 500 State Capitol, Room 506 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 4125 N. Everest Ave. 123 N. Hayden 15160 N. 310th Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Shane Stone Chuck Strohm Johnny Tadlock District 89 District 69 District 1 Party: Democrat Party: Republican Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 510A State Capitol, Room 300C State Capitol, Room 539A Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 1121 SW 41st St. 321 E. 112th St. South P.O. Box 1722 Oklahoma City, OK 73109 Jenks, OK 74037 Idabel, OK 74745 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Todd Thomsen Steven Vaughan Emily Virgin District 25 District 37 District 44 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 410 State Capitol, Room 335 State Capitol, Room 500 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 2347 #1 Skinner Lane 802 Classen Blvd. Ada, OK 74821 Ponca City, OK 74604 Norman, OK 73071 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Ken Walker Kevin Wallace Weldon Watson District 70 District 32 District 79 Party: Republican Party: Republican Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 204 State Capitol, Room 246B State Capitol, Room 406 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: P.O. Box 700117 P.O. Box 367 P.O. Box 35692 Tulsa, OK 74170 Wellston, OK 74881 Tulsa, OK 74153 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Paul Wesselhoft Cory T. Williams Justin Wood District 54 District 34 District 26 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Party: Republican Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 328 State Capitol, Room 544 State Capitol, Room 202 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: District Address: 1105 NE 29th St. 621 Husband P.O. Box 575 Moore, OK 73160 Stillwater, OK 74074 Shawnee, OK 74804 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Harold Wright George Young District 57 District 99 Party: Republican Party: Democrat Capitol Address: Capitol Address: Oklahoma House of Reps. Oklahoma House of Reps. State Capitol, Room 332 State Capitol, Room 510B Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Oklahoma City, OK 73105 District Address: District Address: 10132 State Hwy 54 North 2332 NW 121st Street Weatherford, OK 73095 Oklahoma City, OK 73120 [email protected] [email protected]

Key Oklahoma House of Representatives Health Care Committees and Subcommittees

Government Oversight & Accountability: Tom Newell

Administrative Rules, Government Oversight & Repealer: George Faught

Children, Youth & Family Services: Sally Kern

Insurance: Glen Mulready

Judiciary: Randy Grau

Public Health: Mike Ritz

Long Term Care and Senior Services: Jadine Nollan

Public Safety: Mike Christian

Appropriations & Budget: Earl Sears Subcommittees: Revenue, Taxiation and Employee Compensation: David Dank Human Services: Pat Ownbey Health: Doug Cox

Senate Hospital Representative St Rep St Senator District District

AMG Specialty Hospital Edmond 81 Randy Grau (R) 41 Clark Jolley (R)

AMG Specialty Hospital Tulsa 78 Jeannie McDaniel (D) 35 Gary Stanislawski (R)

Arbuckle Memorial Hospital 22 Charles McCall (R) 14 Frank Simpson (R)

Atoka County Medical Center 22 Charles McCall (R) 6 Josh Brecheen (R)

Bailey Medical Center 74 David Derby (R) 34 Rick Brinkley (R)

Beaver County Memorial Hospital 61 Casey Murdock (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R)

Bristow Medical Center 29 James Leewright (R) 12 Brian Bingman (R)

Brookhaven Hospital 77 Eric Proctor (D) 34 Rick Brinkley (R) Carl Albert Comm. Mental Health Ctr. 18 Donald Condit (D) 7 Larry Boggs (R) Carnegie Tri‐County Municipal Hospital 60 Dan Fisher (R) 26 Darcy JEckr (R)

Cedar Ridge 97 Mike Shelton (D) 48 Anastasia Pittman (D)

Chickasaw Nation Medical Center 25 Todd Thomsen (R) 13 Susan Paddack (D)

Choctaw Memorial Hospital 19 R.C. Pruett (D) 5 Joseph Silk (R)

Choctaw Nation Health Care Center 17 Brian Renegar (D) 7 Larry Boggs (R)

Cimarron Memorial Hospital 61 Casey Murdock (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R)

Claremore Indian Hospital 9 Mark Paul Lepak (R) 2 Marty Quinn (R)

Cleveland Area Hospital 35 Dennis Ray Casey (R) 20 A.J. Griffin (R) Comanche County Memorial Hospital 64 Ann Coody (R) 32 Randy Bass (D)

Community Hospital 91 Chris Kannady (R) 45 Kyle Loveless (R)

Cordell Memorial Hospital 55 Todd Russ (R) 38 Mike Schulz (R)

Representative Senate Hospital District St Rep District St Senator

Cornerstone Hospital Muskogee 13 Jerry McPeak (D) 9 Earl Garrison (D)

Cornerstone Hospital Shawnee 26 Justin Wood (R) 28 Jason Smalley (R)

Craig General Hospital 6 Chuck Hoskin (D) 1 Charles Wyrick (D)

Creek Nation Community Hospital 24 Steve Kouplen (D) 8 Roger Thompson (R)

Deaconess Hospital 87 Jason Nelson (R) 40 Ervin Yen (R)

Drumright Regional Hospital 35 Danny Ray Casey (R) 12 Brian Bingman (R)

Duncan Regional Hospital 50 Dennis Johnson (R) 31 Don Barrington (R)

Eastar Health System 13 Jerry McPeak (D) 9 Earl Garrison (D)

Eastern Oklahoma Medical Center 3 James Lockhart (R) 4 Mark Allen (R)

Elkview General Hospital 55 Todd Russ (R) 38 Mike Schulz (R)

Epic Medical Center 18 Donald Condit (D) 8 Roger Thompson (R)

Fairfax Community Hospital 36 Sean Roberts (R) 10 Eddie Fields (R)

Fairview Regional Medical Center 58 Jeff Hickman (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R)

Federal Correctional Institution 60 Dan Fisher (R) 23 Ron Justice (R)

Grady Memorial Hospital 56 David Perryman (D) 23 Ron Justice (R) Great Plains Regional Medical Center 57 Harold Wright (R) 26 Darcy Jech (R)

Griffin Memorial Hospital 44 Emily Virgin (D) 16 John Sparks (D)

Harmon Memorial Hospital 52 Charles Ortega (R) 38 Mike Schulz (R)

Harper County Community Hospital 61 Casey Murdock (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R)

Haskell County Community Hospital 15 Ed Cannaday (D) 7 Larry Boggs (R)

Hillcrest Hospital Claremore 9 Mark Paul Lepak (R) 2 Marty Quinn (R)

Representative Senate Hospital District St Rep District St Senator

Hillcrest Hospital Cushing 33 Lee Denney (R) 21 Jim Halligan (R)

Hillcrest Hospital Henryetta 16 Jerry Shoemake (D) 8 Roger Thompson (R)

Hillcrest Hospital South 67 Pam Peterson (R) 25 Mike Mazzei (R)

Hillcrest Medical Center 72 Scott Seneca (D) 35 Gary Stanislawski (R)

Holdenville General Hospital 24 Steve Kouplen (D) 13 Susan Paddack (D)

INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center 87 Jason Nelson (R) 40 Ervin Yen (R) INTEGRIS Baptist Regional Health Ctr. 7 Ben Loring (D) 1 Charles Wyrick (D) INTEGRIS Bass Baptist Health Center 40 Chad Caldwell (R) 19 Patrick Anderson (R)

INTEGRIS Bass Pavilion 40 Chad Caldwell (R) 19 Patrick Anderson (R) INTEGRIS Blackwell Regional Hospital 38 John Pfeiffer (R) 19 Patrick Anderson (R)

INTEGRIS Canadian Valley Hospital 60 Dan Fisher (R) 45 Kyle Loveless (R)

INTEGRIS Clinton Regional Hospital 57 Harold Wright (R) 38 Mike Schulz (R)

INTEGRIS Grove Hospital 5 Doug Cox (R) 3 Wayne Shaw (R)

INTEGRIS Health Edmond 96 Lewis Moore (R) 41 Clark Jolley (R) INTEGRIS Marshall County Medical Center 49 Tommy Hardin (R) 6 Josh Brecheen (R) INTEGRIS Mayes County Medical Center 8 Ben Sherrer (D) 2 Marty Quinn (R)

INTEGRIS Seminole Medical Center 28 Tom Newell (R) 28 Jason Smalley (R) INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center 89 Shane Stone (D) 46 Kay Floyd (D) Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center 13 Jerry McPeak (D) 9 Earl Garrison (D)

Jackson County Memorial Hospital 52 Charles Ortega (R) 38 Mike Schulz (R)

Jane Phillips Medical Center 10 Travis Dunlap (R) 29 John Ford (R)

Representative Senate Hospital District St Rep District St Senator

Jane Phillips Nowata Health Center 10 Travis Dunlap (R) 29 John Ford (R)

JD McCarty Center for Children 45 Claudia Griffith (D) 15 Rob Standridge (R)

Jefferson County Hospital 50 Dennis Johnson (R) 31 Don Barrington (R) Jim Taliaferro Comm Mental Hlth Ctr 64 Ann Coody (R) 32 Randy Bass (D)

Kindred Hospital ‐ Oklahoma City 88 Jason Dunnington (D) 46 Kay Floyd (D)

Lakeside Women's Hospital 85 David Dank (R) 47 Greg Treat (R) Lane Frost Health and Rehabilitation Center 19 R. C. Pruett (D) 5 Joseph Silk (R)

Latimer County General Hospital 17 Brian Renegar (D) 7 Larry Boggs (R) Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hosp. 79 Weldon Watson (R) 39 Brian Crain (R)

Lawton Indian Hospital 64 Ann Coody (R) 31 Don Barrington (R)

Lindsay Municipal Hospital 42 Lisa Billy (R) 43 Corey Brooks (R)

Mary Hurley Hospital 18 Donald Condit (D) 6 Josh Brecheen (R)

McAlester Regional Health Center 18 Donald Condit (D) 7 Larry Boggs (R)

McBride Orthopedic Hospital 97 Mike Shelton (D) 48 Anastasia Pittman (D)

McCurtain Memorial Hospital 1 Johnny Tadlock (D) 5 Joseph Silk (R)

Medical Center of Southeastern OK 21 Dustin Roberts (R) 6 Josh Brecheen (R) Memorial Hospital & Physician Group 63 Jeff Coody (R) 31 Don Barrington (R)

Memorial Hospital of Stilwell 86 Will Fourkiller (D) 3 Wayne Shaw (R)

Memorial Hospital of Texas County 61 Casey Murdockl (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R)

Mercy Health Love County 49 Tommy Hardin (R) 14 Frank Simpson (R)

Mercy Hospital Ada 25 Todd Thomsen (R) 13 Susan Paddack (D)

Representative Senate Hospital District St Rep District St Senator

Mercy Hospital Ardmore 48 Pat Ownbey (R) 14 Frank Simpson (R)

Mercy Hospital El Reno 60 Dan Fisher (R) 23 Ron Justice (R)

Mercy Hospital Healdton 48 Pat Ownbey (R) 14 Frank Simpson (R)

Mercy Hospital Kingfisher 59 Mike Sanders (R) 26 Darcy Jech (R)

Mercy Hospital Logan County 31 Jason Murphey (R) 20 A. J. Griffin (R)

Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City 82 Kevin Calvey (R) 47 Greg Treat (R)

Mercy Hospital Tishomingo 22 Charles McCall (R) 14 Frank Simpson (R)

Mercy Hospital Watonga 59 Mike Sanders (R) 26 Darcy Jech (R) Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital of OKC 82 Kevin Calvey (R) 47 Greg Treat (R)

Midwest Regional Medical Center 95 Charlie Joyner (R) 42 Jack Fry (R) Muscogee (Creek) Nation Medical Center 16 Jerry Shoemake (D) 8 Roger Thompson (R) Muscogee (Creek) Nation Physical Rehabilitation 24 Steve Kouplen 8 Roger Thompson (R)

Newman Memorial Hospital 61 Casey Murdock (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R)

Norman Regional Health System 44 Emily Virgin (D) 16 John Sparks (D)

Norman Specialty Hospital 44 Emily Virgin (D) 16 John Sparks (D)

Northeastern Health System 4 Mike Brown (D) 9 Earl Garrison (D) Northwest Center for Behavioral Health 58 Jeff Hickman (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R)

Northwest Surgical Hospital 85 David Dank (R) 40 Ervin Yen (R) OK Ctr for Orthopaedic & Multi‐ Specialty Hospital 54 Paul Wesselhoft (R) 44 Ralph Shortey (R)

Okeene Municipal Hospital 59 Mike Sanders (R) 26 Darcy Jech (R)

Oklahoma Heart Hospital 82 Kevin Calvey (R) 47 Greg Treat (R)

Representative Senate Hospital District St Rep District St Senator

Oklahoma Heart Hospital South 94 Scott Inman (D) 15 Rob Standridge (R)

Oklahoma Spine Hospital 82 Kevin Calvey (R) 47 Greg Treat (R) Oklahoma State University Medical Center 73 Kevin Matthews (D) 11 Jabar Shumate (D)

Oklahoma Surgical Hospital 69 Chuck Strohm (R) 35 Gary Stanislawski (R)

OneCore Health 93 Mike Christian (R) 46 Kay Floyd (D)

OU Medical Center 99 George Young (D) 48 Anastasia Pittman (D) Parkside Psychiatric Hospital & Clinic 72 Scott Seneca (D) 11 Jabar Shumate (D)

Pauls Valley General Hospital 42 Lisa Billy (R) 13 Susan Paddack (D)

Pawhuska Hospital, Inc. 36 Sean Roberts (R) 10 Eddie Fields (R)

Perry Memorial Hospital 38 John Pfeiffer (R) 20 A.J. Griffin (R)

Physicians Hospital in Anadarko 56 David Perryman (D) 23 Ron Justice (R)

Pinnacle Specialty Hospital 69 Chuck Strohm (R) 35 Gary Stanislawski (R)

Ponca City Medical Center 37 Steven Vaughan (R) 10 Eddie Fields (R) Post Acute Medical Specialty Hospital of Tulsa 78 Jeannie McDaniel (D) 25 Mike Mazzei (R)

Prague Community Hospital 32 Kevin Wallace (R) 28 Jason Smalley (R)

Purcell Municipal Hospital 42 Lisa Billy (R) 43 Corey Brooks (R)

Pushmataha Hospital 19 R.C. Pruett (D) 05 Joseph Silk (R)

Quartz Mountain Medical Center 52 Charles Ortega (R) 38 Mike Schulz (R) Reynolds Army Community Hospital 65 Scooter Park (R) 32 Randy Bass (D)

Roger Mills Memorial Hospital 55 Todd Russ (R) 26 Darcy Jech (R)

Rolling Hills Hospital 25 Todd Thomsen (R) 13 Susan Paddack (D)

Representative Senate Hospital District St Rep District St Senator

Saint Francis Hospital 79 Weldon Watson (R) 39 Brian Crain (R)

Saint Francis Hospital South 67 Pam Peterson (R) 25 Mike Mazzei (R)

Sayre Memorial Hospital 55 Todd Russ (R) 26 Darcy Jech (R)

Seiling Municipal Hospital 59 Mike Sanders (R) 27 Bryce Marlett (R)

Select Specialty Hospital ‐ Midtown 72 Scott Seneca (D) 11 Jabar Shumate (D) Select Specialty Hospital ‐ Oklahoma City 87 Jason Nelson (R) 40 Ervin Yen (R) Sequoyah Memorial Hospital & Home Care 2 John R. Bennett (R) 4 Mark Allen (R) Shadow Mountain Behavioral Health System 79 Weldon Watson (R) 39 Brian Crain (R)

Share Medical Center 58 Jeff Hickman (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R) John Michael Southwestern Medical Center 62 Montgomery (R) 31 Don Barrington (R) Southwestern Regional Medical Center 79 Weldon Watson (R) 33 Nathan Dahm (R)

Specialty Hospital of Midwest City 95 Charlie Joyner (R) 42 Jack Fry (R)

St. Anthony Hospital 88 Kay Floyd (D) 46 Al McAffrey (D)

St. Anthony Shawnee Hospital 26 Justin Wood (R) 17 Ron Sharp (R)

St. John Broken Arrow 76 David Brumbaugh (R) 33 Nathan Dahm (R)

St. John Medical Center 78 Jeannie McDaniel (D) 35 Gary Stanislawski (R)

St. John Owasso 74 David Derby (R) 34 Rick Brinkley (R)

St. John Sapulpa 30 Mark McCullough(R) 12 Brian Bingman (R)

St. Mary's Regional Medical Center 40 Chad Caldwell (R) 19 Patrick Anderson (R)

Stillwater Medical Center 34 Cory T. Williams (D) 21 Jim Halligan (R)

Stroud Regional Medical Center 32 Kevin Wallace (R) 28 Jason Smalley (R)

Representative Senate Hospital District St Rep District St Senator

Summit Medical Center 83 Randy McDaniel (R) 47 Greg Treat (R) Richard Morrissette Surgical Hospital of Oklahoma 92 (D) 44 Ralph Shortey (R) The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital 84 Sally Kern (R) 30 David Holt (R)

Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital 68 Glen Mulready(R) 37 Dan Newberry (R) Richard Morrissette Valir Rehabilitation Hospital 92 (D) 46 Kay Floyd (D)

Veterans Affairs Medical Center 99 George Young (D) 48 Anastasia Pittman (D)

Wagoner Community Hospital 12 Wade Rousselot (D) 18 Kimberley David (R)

Weatherford Regional Hospital 57 Harold Wright (R) 38 Mike Schulz (R)

Willow Crest Hospital, Inc. 7 Ben Loring (D) 1 Charles Wyrick (D)

Woodward Regional Hospital 58 Jeff Hickman (R) 27 Bryce Marlatt (R)

WW Hastings Indian Hospital 4 Mike Brown (D) 9 Earl Garrison (D)

Oklahoma’s Congressional Delegation Senators

Senator James M. Inhofe Senator James Lankford Party: Republican Party: Republican

Washington Office: Washington Office: 205 Russell Senate Office Building B40C Dirksen‐Hart Office Building Washington, D.C. 20510‐3603 Washington, D.C. 20510‐3603 (202) 224‐4721 (202) 224‐5754 Fax (202) 228‐0380 http://inhofe.senate.gov/ http://lankford.senate.gov/ Washington Staff: Washington Staff: Ryan Jackson, Chief of Staff Randy Swanson, Chief of Staff

Jennifer Bowman, Leg. Asst/ Katherine Mayne, Leg. Asst/ Health Affairs Health Affairs [email protected]

Wendi Price, Scheduler Katie Weiss, Scheduler [email protected] [email protected]

District Offices: District Offices: Oklahoma City Office Oklahoma City Office 1900 NW Expressway, Ste. 1210 1015 N. Broadway Ave. Ste. 310 Oklahoma City, OK 73118 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 608‐4381 (405) 234‐9900 Tulsa Office 1924 S. Utica, Ste. 530 Tulsa, OK 74104 (918) 748‐5111

Oklahoma Congressional Delegation Representatives

Representative Jim Bridenstine Representative Markwayne Mullin District: 1 District: 2 Party: Republican Party: Republican

Washington Office Washington Office 216 Cannon House Office Building 1113 Longworth House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225‐2211 (202) 225‐2701 Fax (202) 225‐9187 Fax (202) 225‐3038 http://www.house.gov/ http://www.mullin.house.gov/

Washington Staff: Washington Staff: Joe Kaufman, Chief of Staff Karl Algren, Chief of Staff

Mark Piland, Leg. Aide/Health Affairs Jonathan Gray, Leg. Aide/Health Affairs [email protected] [email protected]

Harvey Spark, Scheduler Kayla Priehs, Scheduler [email protected] [email protected]

District Offices: District Offices: Tulsa Office McAlester Office 5727 S. Lewis, Ste. 520 321 S. 3rd, Ste. 4 Tulsa, OK 74105 McAlester, OK 74501 (918) 749‐0014 (918) 423‐5951

Representative Frank Lucas Representative Tom Cole District: 3 District: 4 Party: Republican Party: Republican Washington Office: Washington Office: 2405 Rayburn House Office Building 2467 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225‐5565 (202) 225‐6165 Fax (202) 225‐8698 Fax (202) 225‐3512 http://www.house.gov/lucas http://www.house.gov/cole

Washington Staff: Washington Staff: Courtney Lincoln, Legislative Director Sean Murphy, Chief of Staff [email protected] Jason Grassie, Leg. Aide/Health Affairs Steve Waskiewicz Leg. Aide/Health Affairs [email protected] [email protected]

Interviewing one now, Scheduler Sabrina Parker, Scheduler [email protected] District Office: District Office: Canadian County Office Norman Office 10925 NW Expressway, Suite B 2420 Springer Dr. Suite 120 Yukon, OK 73099 Norman, OK 73069 (405) 373‐1958 (405) 329‐6500

Lawton Office 711 SW D. Avenue St. Lawton, OK 73501 (580) 357‐2131

Representative Steve Russell District: 5 Party: Republican

Washington Office: 128 Cannon House Office Building Washington, D.C. 20515 (202) 225‐2132 Fax (202) 226‐1463 https://russell.house.gov

Washington Staff: Alex Hutkin, Chief of Staff [email protected]

Caleb Krautter, Leg. Aid/Health Affairs [email protected]

Savannah Jolly, Scheduler [email protected]

District Office: Dell City 4600 SE 29th Suite 400 Del City, OK 73115

U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe

As a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, minority leader of the Oklahoma Senate, mayor of Tulsa, congressman from Oklahoma’s First Congressional District, to his present role as Oklahoma’s senior U.S. Senator, Jim has served Oklahomans with pride and honor. Simply put, no one consistently represents common sense, conservative Oklahoma values more than Jim.

Jim considers one of his unique qualifications for office to be the 30 years he’s spent in the business community being over regulated by the federal bureaucracy. Throughout his political career, Jim has been a strong advocate for the principles of limited government, individual liberty and personal responsibility. He believes that the federal government works best when it returns dollars, decisions and freedom to our local communities and families.

During his tenure in Congress, Jim has forged a distinguished legislative record on a diverse range of issues: surface transportation and highway funding; environmental regulation and land management; strengthening and supporting America’s national defense; rural education funding; and improving America’s energy independence. In addition, Jim has sponsored legislation to reduce taxes and reform the tax code; reign in out of control federal bureaucracies; promote fiscal responsibility; and reform the way Congress works.

As chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, Jim played a key role in passage of last year’s Highway Bill, shepherding the important legislation through the U.S. Senate. By doing so he ended Oklahoma’s status as a ‘donor state’ as Oklahoma will now receive more money than it sends to Washington in federal highway funding. This historic legislation also lessened the federal bureaucracy over highway trust funds by returning the decision‐making process back to the states. Jim as also been a champion for restoring common sense and sound science to important environmental and regulatory issues like clean air mandates, wetlands and endangered species.

From his post as the second ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Jim has gained a reputation as an expert on defense and national security issues. Not only is Jim a strong supporter of Oklahoma’s defense industry and military community, he has also been a tireless advocate for providing greater resources, the necessary equipment, and proper training to our military personnel fighting the War on Terror and combating global threats to our nation’s security. Jim has been to Iraq and Afghanistan as much as any other member of Congress since the beginning of the War on Terror.

Jim is a reform‐minded leader whose efforts to change the House of Representatives’ arcane discharge petition rule brought him national attention and praise. The rule change eliminated much of the secrecy in the legislative process and prevented Congressional leaders from keeping popular bills bottled up in committee. Jim has taken that same approach to shine light on the workings of the United States Senate by sponsoring legislation to end a Senator’s ability to anonymously and indefinitely obstruct the Senate’s consideration of nominations and legislation.

Jim is a lifelong Oklahoman who grew up in Tulsa and graduated from the University of Tulsa with a degree in economics. He served in the U.S. Army and has been a small businessman working in aviation, real estate, and insurance for over 30 years. He was elected to the United States Senate in 1994 to complete the unexpired term of Senator David Boren, who resigned to become president of the University of Oklahoma. Jim was re‐elected in 1996 and again in 202. Inhofe has been married 47 years to his wife, Kay, and has four grown children and twelve grandchildren.

U.S. Senator James Lankford

James was first elected to the United Sates Congress on November 2nd, 2010. Before being elected, James directed the Falls Creek Youth Camp from 1996 to 2009. Falls Creek is the largest Christian camp in the nation. While James directed Falls Creek, the camp experienced the greatest growth in its nearly 100 year history. In this capacity, James served people with his real‐ world leadership and business experience. James has also coordinated mission and community service projects in Belize, Malawi, England, Wales, and Germany as well as many areas of Oklahoma. He has spent his life training and challenging the next generation of leaders.

James is a member of the Heritage Foundation, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Deer Creek Chamber of Commerce, Edmond Chamber of Commerce, South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, Northwest Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, and the NRA. He has been an active proponent in the pro‐life and abstinence education conversation in Oklahoma.

Raised in Dallas, Texas, James attended high school in Garland before earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education (Speech and History) at the University of Texas. He then attended Southwestern Seminary and received a master’s degree in Divinity (Theology). After graduating with his master’s degree, James moved to Edmond to serve with the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma and quickly became the Director of Falls Creek.

James has been married to his wife Cindy for 18 years. Together, they have two daughters; Hannah (13) and Jordan (10). James enjoys spending time with his family, sport shooting, and reading.

U.S Representative John Bridenstine 1st District of Oklahoma

Congressman Jim Bridenstine is a Navy pilot and combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, and lives with his wife Michelle and their three children Walker (7), Sarah (5), and Grant (1) in Tulsa, OK.

Bridenstine graduated from Rice University with degrees in economics, business and psychology. After college, he joined the Navy and became a pilot, flying combat missions off the USS Abraham Lincoln in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Operation Southern Watch in Iraq, and Operation Shock and Awe in Iraq. Later, he transitioned to the F‐ 18 Honor fighter at the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center, the parent command to TOPGUN, where he flew "Red Air" and was also an instructor.

After leaving active duty, Bridenstine earned an MBA from Cornell University and returned to Tulsa to be the Executive Director of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum & Planetarium. He was recently promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve where he flies the E‐ 2C Hawkeye, a surveillance and operations command aircraft, in Central and South America in support of America's war on drugs.

Additional Honors/Authorized to Wear Eagle Scout Air Medal Navy Commendation Medal and Combat "V" Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal x 2 National Defense Service Medal Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Iraq Campaign Medal Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon Expert Pistol Medal Battle Efficiency Ribbon

U.S Representative Markwayne Mullin 2nd District of Oklahoma

Markwayne Mullin was elected to serve the people of Oklahoma's 2nd Congressional District in November 2012.

The youngest of seven children, Mullin was raised in the small Adair County community of Westville. Mullin is an eastern Oklahoma native, successful businessman, rancher, and family man.

Shortly after Mullin graduated from Stilwell High School, his father fell ill and the family's small plumbing company encountered financial troubles. Markwayne was only 20 years old but he and his wife, Christie, took over with only six employees. They had never run a business, but Mullin's dad had taught him the value of hard work and discipline. Mullin stabilized the company and grew it into one of the largest service companies in the tri‐state area. Today, it is only one of several successful companies they own and operate. Mullin is proud to have turned a family trade into a thriving business that employs over 120 Oklahomans. He also continues to run his cattle ranch in Westville.

Mullin was a high school athlete and went to college on a wrestling scholarship before returning home to run the family business. He's also a rodeo and a martial arts enthusiast and is an avid hunter. He's been married to Christie, his high school sweetheart, for 15 years and they have three children, Jim, Andrew, and Larra.

Mullin's victory puts him in rare territory. Mullin is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. When the 113th Congress convenes in January 2013, he will be the second Native American in the House‐‐ the other being Rep. Tom Cole (R‐Oklahoma), a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation. Congressman Mullin has been selected to serve on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Natural Resources Committee.

U.S Representative Frank D. Lucas 3rd District of Oklahoma

U.S. Representative Frank D. Lucas is serving his seventh full term as a Member of Congress, representing Oklahoma’s Third Congressional District. He serves on the Agriculture, Financial Services, and Science and Technology Committees. Lucas serves as ranking member of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy and Research.

Congressman Lucas is a fifth generation Oklahoman whose family has lived and farmed in western Oklahoma for over 100 years. He operates a farm and cattle ranch in Roger Mills County in far western Oklahoma, where he lives with his wife, Lynda and three children.

Oklahoma’s Third Congressional District includes all but one county of his old Sixth Congressional District, which he had represented since being elected to Congress in a 1994 special election. The district included all or portions of 32 counties in northern and western Oklahoma, stretching from the Oklahoma panhandle to parts of Tulsa, and from Yukon to Altus in the southwest. It takes up almost half the state’s land mass.

Prior to his service in the U.S. Congress, Lucas served for 5 ½ years in the Oklahoma State House of Representatives. He believes Oklahomans benefit from less federal government in their daily lives, allowing them to make decisions for themselves, their families and their communities. In 2002 he was named a “Property Rights Champion” by the League of Private Property Voters, and a “Hero of the Taxpayer” by Americans for Tax Reform.

Lucas is a member of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau, Oklahoma Farmer’s Union, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, Oklahoma Shorthorn Association and the Kiwanis Club of Cheyenne. He graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1982 with a degree in Agricultural Economics.

Lucas was born January 6, 1960 in Cheyenne (Roger Mills County), Oklahoma. The Lucas’ are members of First Baptist Church in Cheyenne.

U.S. Representative Tom Cole 4th District of Oklahoma

Tom Cole became the Representative for Oklahoma's Fourth Congressional District on November 6th, 2002. During his tenure in the House Cole has established himself as a strong voice for the conservative views and values of the Fourth District. He is an advocate for a strong national defense, a defender of the interests of small business and taxpayers, a proponent of education at all levels and a leader on issues dealing with Native Americans and tribal governments. Cole was named as one of "Five Freshmen to Watch" by Roll Call at the outset of his congressional career.

Cole has a significant background of service to his home state of Oklahoma. He has served as a District Director for former Congressman Mickey Edwards, a member of the Oklahoma State Senate, and as Oklahoma's Secretary of State. In this capacity he served as former Governor Frank Keating's chief legislative strategist and liaison to the state's federal delegation. Keating tapped Cole to lead Oklahoma's successful effort to secure federal funds to assist in the rebuilding of Oklahoma City in the wake of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building on April 19th, 1995.

Cole is a founding partner and past president of CHS & Associates, a nationally recognized consulting and survey research firm based in Oklahoma City. The firm has been named one of the top twenty in its field in America and has literally dozens of past and current clients scattered across the country.

A former college instructor in history and politics, Cole holds a B.A. from Grinnell College, an M.A. from Yale University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma. Cole has been a Thomas Watson Fellow and a Fulbright Fellow at the University of London. He currently serves on the national Board of the Fulbright Association.

Tom Cole is a fifth generation Oklahoman and an enrolled member of the Chickasaw Nation. He is currently the only Native American serving in Congress and was inducted in the Chickasaw Hall of Fame in 2004. Cole's late mother, Helen, is also a member of the Chickasaw Hall of Fame and served as a state representative, state senator and mayor in her native state of Oklahoma. Cole's late father, John, served twenty years in the United States Air Force and worked an additional two decades as a civilian federal employee at Tinker Air Force Base. Tom and his wife Ellen, have one son, Mason, and reside in Moore, Oklahoma.

U.S. Representative Steve Russell 5th District of Oklahoma

A fifth generation Oklahoman raised by hard working parents, Steve Russell has always excelled from a strong work ethic, commitment to his faith and family as well as a responsibility to lead. In high school, Steve was a leader in ‘Evangelism Explosion’ and took it upon himself to go door‐ to‐door sharing his testimony. Graduating from Del City High, Steve was president of his senior class and voted most likely to succeed. Steve’s academic success earned him a full four‐year Army Scholarship to Ouachita Baptist University where he earned his bachelor’s degree and was the top cadet in his class. More important, Steve met Cindy while in college, and they have now been married 28 years and have raised five children.

Key Congressional Health Care Committees

Senate Committees:

Committee on the Budget

The House and Senate Committees on the Budget report to their respective chambers on all concurrent resolutions on budget matters, as stipulated in the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 (P.L. 93‐344). They conduct studies on the effect of budget outlays on relevant proposed and existing legislation, request and evaluate studies of tax expenditures and methods of coordinating tax expenditures with direct budget outlays, and review Congressional Budget Office operations.

Committee on Finance

The Senate Finance Committee and its health subcommittees are responsible for legislation on Medicare and Medicaid, as well as other health programs that, in the aggregate, involve almost three‐fifths of the federal budget. As a result of the full committee’s jurisdiction over amendments to internal revenue laws, which may affect tax reform and philanthropy, both the committee and its health subcommittees have significant influence over health‐related measures and issues that affect health care institutions. Amendments to the Social Security Act, which include Medicare, Medicaid, and maternal and child health, for example, also encompass legislation affecting public assistance, old age, survivors, disability insurance, and unemployment compensation programs.

Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pension

The Senate Labor and Human Resources Committee, which has no health subcommittee, has jurisdiction over programs authorized under the Public Health Service (e.g., clinical laboratories, allied health and nurse training), the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, and the Mental Retardation Facilities and Community Mental Health Centers Act. Although the committee has no jurisdiction over Medicare and Medicaid, members hold hearings on expanding access to health care for the medically indigent, health care sot containment and manpower issues, including Medicare payment for graduate medical education. Legislation dealing with child abuse, adoption, the Community Service Block Grant, adolescent family life, and the Head Start Program – all of which include some provision for delivery of health services – is referred initially to the panel’s subcommittee on Children, Family, Drugs and Alcohol.

House Committees:

Committee on Ways and Means

The Ways and Means Committee has jurisdiction over Medicare Parts A and B and health proposals funded through federal general revenues, tax legislation, and Social Security, except for health care facilities programs supported from general revenues rather than payroll deductions, and for work‐incentive programs.

Committee on Energy and Commerce

The Commerce Committee has jurisdiction over programs authorized under the Social Security Act, including Medicaid, Medicare Part B, child health, long‐term care, peer review, and programs authorized under the Public Health Service Act, including hospital construction, biomedical research, allied health and nurse training, medical devices, mental health research, alcoholism, drug abuse, maternal and child health care, HMOs and issues related to environmental protection – all of which are initially referred to the committee’s Subcommittee on Health and the Environment.

Committee on Education and the Work Force

The Economic and Educational Opportunities Committee, formerly the Education and Labor Committee, has jurisdiction over measures relating to education or labor issues. The committee has influence over measures concerning workers’ health and safety, wages and hours of labor, post‐secondary student assistance, training and apprenticeship, and pension benefits, including the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).

The Committee on Appropriations

The Appropriations Committee has jurisdiction over discretionary spending, which is approximately one‐third of the federal budget. It consists of thousands of programs controlled through annual appropriations acts. The other two‐thirds of the budget is mandatory spending and interest on the debt. Mandatory spending is controlled by permanent law and includes such programs as Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, which are referred to the committee’s Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies.

Cong Hospital City Us Rep District

AMG Specialty Hospital Edmond Edmond 5 Steve Russell (R)

AMG Specialty Hospital Tulsa Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Arbuckle Memorial Hospital Sulphur 4 Tom Cole (R)

Atoka County Medical Center Atoka 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Bailey Medical Center Owasso 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Beaver County Memorial Hospital Beaver 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Bristow Medical Center Bristow 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Brookhaven Hospital Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Carl Albert Comm. Mental Health Ctr. McAlester 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Carnegie Tri‐County Municipal Hospital Carnegie 3 Frank Lucas (R) Oklahoma Cedar Ridge City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Chickasaw Nation Medical Center Ada 4 Tom Cole (R)

Choctaw Memorial Hospital Hugo 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Choctaw Nation Health Care Center Talihina 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Cimarron Memorial Hospital Boise City 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Claremore Indian Hospital Claremore 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Cleveland Area Hospital Cleveland 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Comanche County Memorial Hospital Lawton 4 Tom Cole (R) Oklahoma Community Hospital City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Cordell Memorial Hospital Cordell 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Cornerstone Hospital Muskogee Muskogee 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Cornerstone Hospital Shawnee Shawnee 5 Steve Russell (R)

Cong Hospital City Us Rep District

Craig General Hospital Vinita 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Creek Nation Community Hospital Okemah 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R) Oklahoma Deaconess Hospital City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Drumright Regional Hospital Drumright 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Duncan Regional Hospital Duncan 4 Tom Cole (R)

Eastar Health System Muskogee 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Elkview General Hospital Hobart 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Epic Medical Center Eufaula 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Fairfax Community Hospital Fairfax 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Fairview Regional Medical Center Fairview 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Federal Correctional Institution El Reno 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Grady Memorial Hospital Chickasha 4 Tom Cole (R)

Great Plains Regional Medical Center Elk City 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Griffin Memorial Hospital Norman 4 Tom Cole (4)

Harmon Memorial Hospital Hollis 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Harper County Community Hospital Buffalo 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Haskell County Community Hospital Stigler 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Hillcrest Hospital Claremore Claremore 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Hillcrest Hospital Cushing Cushing 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Hillcrest Hospital Henryetta Henryetta 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Hillcrest Medical Center Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Cong Hospital City Us Rep District

Holdenville General Hospital Holdenville 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R) Oklahoma INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center City 5 Steve Russell (R)

INTEGRIS Baptist Regional Health Ctr. Miami 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

INTEGRIS Bass Baptist Health Center Enid 3 Frank Lucas (R)

INTEGRIS Bass Pavilion Enid 3 Frank Lucas (R)

INTEGRIS Blackwell Regional Hospital Blackwell 3 Frank Lucas (R)

INTEGRIS Canadian Valley Hospital Yukon 3 Frank Lucas (R)

INTEGRIS Clinton Regional Hospital Clinton 3 Frank Lucas (R)

INTEGRIS Grove Hospital Grove 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

INTEGRIS Health Edmond Edmond 5 Steve Russell (R)

INTEGRIS Marshall County Medical Center Madill 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

INTEGRIS Mayes County Medical Center Pryor 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

INTEGRIS Seminole Medical Center Seminole 5 Steve Russell (R) Oklahoma INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center Muskogee 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Jackson County Memorial Hospital Altus 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Jane Phillips Medical Center Bartlesville 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Jane Phillips Nowata Health Center Nowata 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

JD McCarty Center for Children Norman 4 Tom Cole (R)

Jefferson County Hospital Waurika 4 Tom Cole (R)

Jim Taliaferro Comm Mental Hlth Ctr Lawton 4 Tom Cole (R)

Cong Hospital City Us Rep District Oklahoma Kindred Hospital ‐ Oklahoma City City 5 Steve Russell (R) Oklahoma Lakeside Women's Hospital City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Lane Frost Health and Rehabilitation Center Hugo 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Latimer County General Hospital Wilburton 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Laureate Psychiatric Clinic and Hosp. Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Lawton Indian Hospital Lawton 4 Tom Cole (R)

Lindsay Municipal Hospital Lindsay 4 Tom Cole (R)

McAlester Regional Health Center McAlester 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R) Oklahoma McBride Orthopedic Hospital City 5 Steve Russell (R)

McCurtain Memorial Hospital Idabel 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Medical Center of Southeastern OK Durant 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Memorial Hospital & Physician Group Frederick 4 Tom Cole (R)

Memorial Hospital of Stilwell Stilwell 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Memorial Hospital of Texas County Guymon 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Mercy Health Love County Marietta 4 Tom Cole (R)

Mercy Hospital Ada Ada 4 Tom Cole (R)

Mercy Hospital Ardmore Ardmore 4 Tom Cole (R)

Mercy Hospital El Reno El Reno 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Mercy Hospital Healdton Healdton 4 Tom Cole (R)

Mercy Hospital Kingfisher Kingfisher 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Mercy Hospital Logan County Guthrie 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Cong Hospital City Us Rep District

Mercy Hospital Tishomingo Tishomingo 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Mercy Hospital Watonga Watonga 3 Frank Lucas (R) Oklahoma Mercy Rehabilitation Hospital of OKC City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Midwest Regional Medical Center Midwest City 4 Tom Cole (R)

Muscogee (Creek) Nation Medical Center Okmulgee 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R) Muscogee (Creek) Nation Physical Rehabilitation Okmulgee 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Newman Memorial Hospital Shattuck 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Norman Regional Health System Norman 4 Tom Cole (R)

Norman Specialty Hospital Norman 4 Tom Cole (R)

Northeastern Health System Tahlequah 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Northwest Center for Behavioral Health Woodward 3 Frank Lucas (R) Oklahoma Northwest Surgical Hospital City 5 Steve Russell (R) OK Ctr for Orthopaedic & Multi‐Specialty Oklahoma Hospital City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Okeene Municipal Hospital Okeene 3 Frank Lucas (R) Oklahoma Oklahoma Heart Hospital South City 5 Steve Russell (R) Oklahoma Oklahoma Spine Hospital City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Oklahoma State University Medical Center Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Oklahoma Surgical Hospital Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R) Oklahoma OneCore Health City 5 Steve Russell (R) Oklahoma OU Medical Center City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Parkside Psychiatric Hospital & Clinic Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Cong Hospital City Us Rep District

Pauls Valley General Hospital Pauls Valley 4 Tom Cole (R)

Pawhuska Hospital, Inc. Pawhuska 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Perry Memorial Hospital Perry 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Physicians Hospital in Anadarko Anadarko 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Pinnacle Specialty Hospital Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Ponca City Medical Center Ponca City 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Post Acute Medical Specialty Hospital of Tulsa Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Prague Community Hospital Prague 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Purcell Municipal Hospital Purcell 4 Tom Cole (R)

Pushmataha Hospital Antlers 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Quartz Mountain Medical Center Mangum 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Reynolds Army Community Hospital Fort Sill 4 Tom Cole (R)

Roger Mills Memorial Hospital Cheyenne 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Rolling Hills Hospital Ada 4 Tom Cole (R)

Saint Francis Hospital Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Saint Francis Hospital South Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Sayre Memorial Hospital Sayre 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Seiling Municipal Hospital Seiling 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Select Specialty Hospital ‐ Midtown Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R) Oklahoma Select Specialty Hospital ‐ Oklahoma City City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Shadow Mountain Behavioral Health System Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Cong Hospital City Us Rep District

Share Medical Center Alva 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Southwestern Medical Center Lawton 4 Tom Cole (R)

Southwestern Regional Medical Center Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Specialty Hospital of Midwest City Midwest City 4 Tom Cole (R) Oklahoma St. Anthony Hospital City 5 James Lankford (R)

St. Anthony Shawnee Hospital Shawnee 5 Steve Russell (R)

St. John Broken Arrow Broken Arrow 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

St. John Medical Center Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

St. John Owasso Owasso 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

St. John Sapulpa Sapulpa 3 Frank Lucas (R)

St. Mary's Regional Medical Center Enid 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Stillwater Medical Center Stillwater 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Stroud Regional Medical Center Stroud 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Summit Medical Center Edmond 5 Steve Russell (R) Oklahoma Surgical Hospital of Oklahoma City 5 Steve Russell (R)

The Children’s Center Rehabilitation Hospital Bethany 5 Steve Russell (R)

Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital Tulsa 1 Jim Bridenstine (R) Oklahoma Valir Rehabilitation Hospital City 5 Steve Russell (R) Oklahoma Veterans Affairs Medical Center City 5 Steve Russell (R)

Wagoner Community Hospital Wagoner 1 Jim Bridenstine (R)

Weatherford Regional Hospital Weatherford 3 Frank Lucas (R)

Cong Hospital City Us Rep District

Willow Crest Hospital, Inc. Miami 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

Woodward Regional Hospital Woodward 3 Frank Lucas (R)

WW Hastings Indian Hospital Tahlequah 2 MarkWayne Mullin (R)

United States Senate 2015 Legislative Schedule 114th Congress, 1st Session

Date: Action: Notes: Jan. 6th Convene

Jan 19th Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday

Feb 16- Feb 20 State Work Period President’s Day – Feb. 16th

Mar 30 – Apr 10 State Work Period

May 25 – May 29 State Work Period Memorial Day – May 25

June 29- Jul 6 State Work Period Independence Day – Jul 4

Aug 10 – Sep 7 State Work Period Labor Day – Sep 7

Sep 14

Sep 23

Oct 12 – Oct 16 State Work Period Columbus Day – Oct 12

Nov 11 Veterans’ Day

Nov 23 – Nov 27 State Work Period Thanksgiving Nov 26

Dec 21 – Dec 31 State Work Period Target Adjournment Date TBD

2015 Legislative Deadlines 1st Regular Session - 55th Legislature

Dec. 13, 2014 Deadline to request drafting of bills and joint resolutions.

Jan. 6, 2015 Organizational Day

Jan. 22, 2015 Bill Introduction Deadline at 4:00p.m.

Feb.2, 2015 1st Regular Session of the 55th Legislature Begins

March 12, 2015 Deadline for third reading and final passage of measures in the house of origin

April 23, 2015 Deadline for third reading and final passage of measures from opposite house

May 29, 2015 Sine Die adjournment

Upon a two‐thirds vote of the membership of both Houses, a bill or joint resolution can be exempt from all cutoff dates. This rule is inapplicable to bills relating to reapportionment; joint resolutions approving or disapproving agency rules, and/or a bill merging different versions of a statute amended in more than one measure; or any bill or joint resolution approving, disapproving, repealing or modifying rules of the Ethics Commission.

Glossary of Legislative Terms Note: These terms are defined according to their use in the Oklahoma House and the Oklahoma State Senate.

Absolute Majority ‐ See "Majority"

Act ‐ a measure which has become law after: (1) being passed by both Houses and approved by the governor, (2) being passed over the governor's veto, or (3) becoming effective without the governor's signature.

Adjournment ‐ termination of a daily session; occurring at the close of each legislative day upon the completion of business, with the hour and day of the next meeting being set prior to adjournment. (Also see "Sine die.")

Adoption ‐ approval or acceptance; usually applied to amendments, resolutions or conference committee reports.

Advancement ‐ a procedure by which a measure on the floor is moved to third reading and is no longer subject to amendment in the House in which it is being considered.

Agenda (committee) ‐ a list of legislative measures, by number and short title, arranged according to the order of business, to be considered in a committee meeting.

Agenda (floor) ‐ a list of legislative measures, by number and short title, that the Majority Floor Leader plans to consider on a particular legislative day. Any other measure listed on the calendar can also be considered by the Senate that day. The floor agenda is part of the Senate Digest. (Also see "Calendar.")

Amendment ‐ any alteration made or proposed to be made in a bill, motion or clause by adding, changing, substituting or omitting portions of the measure in question. Amendments may be made at the appropriate time in committee or on the Senate floor.

Appropriation ‐ a legislative allocation of funds for a specific purpose.

Author ‐ the legislator who introduces and sponsors a measure in either House. (Also see "Co‐author" and "Principal Author.")

Bill ‐ a proposed new law or a proposed change to current law presented to the Legislature for consideration. (Also see "Resolution.")

Bipartisan ‐ involving representatives of two political parties. (Also see "Nonpartisan.")

Bloc ‐ a group of legislators working together to achieve a common goal.

Budget ‐ estimate of the receipts and expenditures needed to carry out programs for a fiscal period.

Calendar ‐ list of legislation available to be heard by the Legislature. (Also see "Agenda," "General Order" and "Consent Calendar.")

Calendar Day ‐ any day of the year, whether or not the Legislature is in session. (Also see "Legislative Day.")

Call of the Senate ‐ a method of operation of the Senate upon a majority vote of the members present, under which the presiding officer may compel the attendance of all members and may confine the members to the chamber for the purpose of conducting business.

Carryover Legislation ‐ legislation held over from the first regular session of a Legislature to the second regular session (from odd‐numbered years to even‐numbered years).

Caucus ‐ a meeting of certain members of a legislative body to select leaders or decide policy. A caucus may be formed by a political party or may be formed by any group with a common interest.

Codification ‐ the process by which newly enacted law is systematically numbered within the Oklahoma Statutes.

Committee ‐ a group of members of a legislative body to which is assigned a special task.

Standing Committee ‐ a permanent committee set up to handle legislation in a certain field.

Special or Select Committee ‐ a temporary committee set up to deal with a specific issue.

Joint Committee ‐ a committee representing both Houses.

Conference Committee ‐ a joint committee whose function is to arrive at a single version of a bill which has passed the two legislative Houses in somewhat different form. (Also see "General Conference Committee on Appropriations.")

Committee of the Whole ‐ a committee consisting of the entire membership of the Senate. Without prior notice, the Senate may declare itself a committee of the whole upon approval of a majority of the members.

Committee Report ‐ the report of an action of a majority of the members of a certain committee on any measure. The committee report is transmitted to the floor. A committee report shows a recommendation for action, all committee amendments and any authorship changes. Recommendations for action are limited to "do pass" or "do pass as amended." The latter can include a committee substitute for the measure.

Committee Substitute ‐ revised version of legislation proposed for consideration or adopted by a committee.

Concurrent Resolution ‐ See "Resolution."

Conference Committee ‐ See "Committee."

Constitutional Amendment ‐ a change in the state constitution, proposed either by legislative joint resolution or initiative petition, and requiring an affirmative vote of the electorate to become effective.

Convene ‐ to assemble the Legislature or either House thereof. The regular session of the Legislature convenes on the first Monday in February of each year. In odd‐numbered years the Legislature convenes on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in January for that one day only.

Cripple the Title ‐ see "Strike the Title."

Effective date ‐ the date upon which a measure actually becomes law. This date may or may not be listed in the legislation. If not, and if an emergency clause is not included, the law automatically becomes effective 90 days after sine die adjournment. (Also see "Emergency Clause.")

Emergency Clause ‐ a provision, requiring two‐thirds approval by both Houses, that allows a measure to become effective immediately upon the signature of the governor or at a specified date. A law cannot become effective fewer than 90 days after sine die adjournment without an emergency clause.

Enacting Clause ‐ the phrase: "BE IT ENACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA:." All bills passed must contain an enacting clause.

Engrossment ‐ the preparation of an exact, accurate and official copy of a measure passed by the House of origin containing the proper endorsement of that House and including all adopted committee and floor amendments; the measure is then forwarded to the opposite House for its consideration. Any amendments made in the opposite House are likewise engrossed and returned to the House of origin for consideration.

Enrollment ‐ the preparation of an exact, accurate and official copy of a measure in its final form in the House of origin, with amendments adopted in the opposite House or in a conference committee and concurred in by the House of origin incorporated in the measure; the final and official copy includes the signatures of the presiding officers of both Houses and is sent to the governor for signature.

Executive Nomination ‐ nomination made by the governor or other appointing authority of an appointee to a state agency, board or commission and sent to the Senate for its approval. The nomination is first sent to the appropriate standing committee which makes a recommendation to the full Senate.

First Reading ‐ see "Readings."

Fiscal Year ‐ a twelve‐month period at the end of which accounts are finalized. Oklahoma's fiscal year lasts from July 1 through June 30.

Floor ‐ the interior of either chamber; "floor action" describes the consideration of measures by the entire membership of the respective chambers.

Floor Amendment ‐ an amendment proposed for consideration on the Senate floor. When a measure is read for passage, and before advancement of the measure, members may write changes to the bill in the form of a floor amendment. These amendments are written by the members or legislative services staff, and are either adopted or fail according to a vote of the Senate.

General Conference Committee on Appropriations (GCCA) ‐ a continuing conference committee which hears all appropriation bills for consideration on the floor. The GCCA is made up of members from each House and is divided into subcommittees.

General Order ‐ an order of legislative business in which the Senate considers bills and joint resolutions which have been reported out of committee. Under general order, measures are subject to debate and amendment. (Also see "Calendar" and "Consent Calendar.")

Hearing ‐ a session of a legislative committee at which witnesses present testimony on matters under consideration by the committee.

Initiative Petition ‐ the method by which the people may submit proposals for legislation or constitutional amendments.

Introduction ‐ the filing of a measure for consideration by the Legislature. A measure is considered introduced upon first reading and is assigned a number at that time.

Journal ‐ the official record of legislative proceedings. Each House issues its own daily journal for each day of the session and a corrected, indexed and bound permanent journal after the close of the session.

Lay Over ‐ to postpone action on a measure until a future time.

Legislative Day ‐ a day on which the Legislature actually meets. (Also see "Calendar Day.") There are usually four legislative days per week.

Lobbyist ‐ a person who, voluntarily or for a fee, represents himself or herself, any individual, organization, corporation or entity before the Legislature.

Majority ‐ more than half.

Absolute majority ‐ more than half of the entire membership.

Simple majority ‐ more than half of the members present and voting.

Majority Floor Leader ‐ a senator chosen by members of the majority party caucus to determine the order of business for the Senate. The Majority Floor Leader is an ex‐officio and voting member of all Senate committees. The members of the majority party caucus also choose one or more Majority Whips and Assistant Majority Floor Leaders.

Majority Whip ‐ a senator responsible for assisting the members of the majority party in working with members of the Senate in determining and informing the leadership of the members' positions on issues.

Minority Floor Leader ‐ a senator chosen by members of the minority party caucus to be the leader of the minority party members. The members of the minority party also choose an Assistant Minority Floor Leader, a Minority Whip and an Assistant Minority Whip.

Minority Whip ‐ a senator responsible for assisting the members of the minority party in the same manner as the Majority Whip. (Also see "Majority Whip.")

Measure ‐ bill, joint resolution, concurrent resolution or simple resolution.

Motion to Reconsider ‐ a motion to consider again an action of the House in which the measure is being considered. For a motion to reconsider the final vote of a measure on the third or fourth reading, or on an emergency clause or special election feature, notice must be served on the same day of the action that a member may wish to lodge a motion to reconsider, and the motion must be made within the succeeding three legislative days. A motion to reconsider any other action must be made by a member voting in the majority and must be disposed of on the same day.

Officers ‐ members and staff elected by the Senate as leadership. This includes the lieutenant governor who is the President of the Senate, the President Pro Tempore, the Majority and Minority Floor Leaders, the Assistant Majority and Minority Floor Leaders, the Majority and Minority Whips and the Secretary of the Senate.

Order of Business ‐ the following is the order of business followed in each daily session: 1. Prayer 7. Fourth Reading 2. Executive Nominations 8. Committee Reports 3. General Order 9. Second Reading 4. Third Reading 10. First Reading 5. House Amendments to Senate Bills and 11. Communications Resolutions 6. Conference Committee Reports 12. Other Business

Override ‐ to pass a bill after the governor has vetoed it. This requires a two‐thirds vote of each House (three‐fourths vote on emergency measures).

Personal Privilege ‐ right of a member to speak on the floor regarding a subject not currently being discussed or on the agenda.

Pocket Veto ‐ failure of the governor to sign a measure within 15 days following sine die adjournment, which results in veto without gubernatorial action. (Also see "Veto".)

Point of Order ‐ motion calling attention to an alleged breach of order or rules.

Pre‐filing ‐ filing of bills and other proposed legislation prior to the convening of the regular session of the Legislature. Bills may be pre‐filed beginning on November 15 of even‐ numbered years and at any time during odd‐numbered years.

President of the Senate ‐ the lieutenant governor.

President Pro Tempore ‐ a senator chosen by his or her fellow members to be the chief executive officer of the Senate and to preside in the absence of the lieutenant governor, with powers and duties prescribed by Senate rules. The President Pro Tempore is the effective leader of the Senate and is an ex‐officio and voting member of all Senate committees.

Presiding Officer ‐ the senator who chairs the daily session. There may be several presiding officers during any daily session. The presiding officer must determine the presence of a quorum upon request, interpret the rules, maintain order, recognize speakers, sign legislation that has passed and control the voting machines.

Principal Author ‐ the member introducing and sponsoring a measure. A measure must have a principal author from both Houses at some time during the legislative process. The principal authors' names appear first on the bill followed by the names of any co‐authors. (Also see "Co‐author.")

Quorum ‐ the number of the members (usually more than half) required to be present in the chamber or a committee meeting before business may be transacted.

Quorum call ‐ a determination as to whether or not a quorum is present.

Readings ‐ presentation of a bill or joint resolution. Every measure must receive three readings before passage, none of which may be on the same day. A fourth reading occurs at the time of final action.

First reading ‐ the measure is introduced and its title only is read for the first time. The measure is assigned a number at this time.

Second reading ‐ the title of the measure is read for the second time and it is referred to committee.

Third reading ‐ the measure is read at length before a vote is taken.

Fourth reading ‐ amendments from the opposite House or a conference committee report on a measure are read before a vote is taken. If a measure has passed both Houses in the same form, fourth reading occurs upon the signature of the presiding officer.

Recall ‐ to retrieve, by concurrent resolution, a measure which has been presented to the governor, for the correction of errors.

Recede ‐ to withdraw from an amendment in which the opposite House refused to concur.

Reconsider ‐ to consider again a vote on any action previously taken by the Legislature. (Also see "Motion to Reconsider.")

Referendum ‐ the method by which a non‐emergency measure adopted by the Legislature may be submitted to the electorate for popular vote. Referendum may be used to amend or repeal non‐ emergency measures passed by the Legislature.

Repeal ‐ the removal of an entire section of law from the Oklahoma Statutes by the Legislature. The repeal of a statute or statutes is accomplished by the insertion of a repealer clause in a legislative measure which becomes law.

Rescind ‐ to annul an action previously taken.

Resolution ‐ a formal expression of the will, wish or direction of one or both Houses.

Joint Resolution ‐ a resolution passed by both Houses of the Legislature which, if signed by the governor, has the force and effect of law. Some Oklahoma case law suggests that joint resolutions may only be used for temporary laws and not for permanent laws. Joint resolutions which are not signed by the governor are also used to propose amendments to the Oklahoma Constitution or to ratify amendments to the United States Constitution.

Concurrent Resolution ‐ a resolution passed by both Houses of the Legislature to ex‐ press facts, principles, opinions, wishes and purposes of the Legislature. Concurrent resolutions are also used to memorialize the president, Congress, cabinet members or federal agencies on a certain course of action. Although a concurrent resolution does not customarily have the force and effect of law, it does when used to authorize the issuance of revenue bonds.

Simple Resolution ‐ a resolution which expresses the opinion or will of one House only and does not have the force and effect of law. It may be used for some of the same purposes as a concurrent resolution; however, its use is not as broad as that of a concurrent resolution.

Roll Call Vote ‐ a recorded vote on a measure by which members respond either "aye" or "nay" when their names are called, or by indicating the same on an electronic roll call machine. (Also see "Voice Vote.")

Rules ‐ provisions for the procedure, organization, officers and committees of the Legislature.

Joint rules ‐ govern relationship between and matters affecting the two Houses.

Senate and House rules ‐ govern matters affecting only one House.

Session ‐ the period during which the Legislature meets.

Regular session ‐ the annual session.

Daily session ‐ each day's meeting.

Joint session ‐ the meeting of the two Houses together. The lieutenant governor presides at joint sessions.

Extraordinary session or special session ‐ a special session of the Legislature called by the governor or by two‐thirds of the members of the Legislature. If called by the governor, only those subjects enumerated by the governor may be considered.

Shell Bill ‐ a bill in which the title and body of the original version have been stricken and replaced with a title and body which may or may not relate specifically to the provisions of the original bill.

Simple Majority ‐ see "Majority."

Simple Resolution ‐ see "Resolution."

Sine die ‐ adjournment "without day" being set for reconvening; final adjournment. The Legislature is required to adjourn sine die no later than 5:00 on the last Friday in May. (Also see "Adjournment.")

Speaker ‐ the leader of the House of Representatives, elected by all members of the House.

Statute ‐ a law enacted by the Legislature.

Statutes ‐ a compilation of all enacted laws currently in effect.

Strike the Title ‐ to change the title of a bill to a few words which are briefly descriptive but constitutionally unacceptable. The major intent of this action is to ensure that the bill will go to a conference committee. The same effect may be achieved by striking the enacting clause. Any Senate legislation being reported out of a Senate committee, with the exception of an appropriation bill, must have an enacting clause or resolving clause and a Senate and House author.

Table ‐ to lay aside for future discussion, usually for purposes of postponing or shelving the matter indefinitely.

Title ‐ a concise statement of the contents of a bill, prepared as a preface to the bill, as required by the Oklahoma Constitution. The purpose of the title of a bill is to alert the reader to the contents of the bill. Titles which inaccurately perform this function may cause court challenge of the measure, resulting in the striking of any contents of the bill not reflected in the title.

Veto ‐ disapproval by the governor of a measure. The measure is then sent back to the Legislature with the objections. (Also see "Pocket Veto.")

Voice Vote ‐ a non‐roll call vote by which members respond orally by "aye" or "nay." (Also see "Roll Call Vote.")

Path of a Bill

1 (1) Introduction and First Reading Introduction and First Reading

2 (2) Second Reading and Second Reading and Committee Referral Committee Referral

3 (3) Committee Consideration Committee Consideration and Report and Report

4 (4) General Order General Order

5 (5) Consideration by Consideration by Whole Whole Senate or Whole Senate or Whole House House

6 (6) Engrossment Engrossment

7 (7) Third Reading and Final Action Third Reading and Final Action

8 Signing and Transmission to Other House

9 10 Signing and Transmission to Consideration of Possible Amendments Originating House

11 Possible Consideration by Conference Committee

12 13 14 Enrollment and Fourth Reading Action by the Governor Filing with the Secretary of State

Important Telephone Numbers

Governor ...... Governor Mary Fallin 405‐521‐2342

Lt. Governor ...... Todd Lamb 405‐521‐2161

Attorney General ...... E. Scott Pruitt 405‐521‐3921

Health Agencies

OKLAHOMA STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

Commissioner ...... Terry L Cline, PhD 405‐271‐4200

Chief Operating Officer ...... Julie Cox‐Kain 405‐271‐4200

Health Statistics ...... Kelly Baker, MPH 405‐271‐6225

Community & Family Health Services ...... Deputy Commissioner Steve Ronck, MPH 405‐271‐5585

Injury Prevention ...... Sheryl Brown 405‐271‐3430

Family Support and Prevention Service ...... Annette Jacobi, JD 405‐271‐7611

Dental Health Service...... Jana Winfree 405‐271‐5502

Maternal & Child Health Service...... Suzanna Dooley, MS, ARNP 405‐271‐4480

SoonerStart ...... John Corpolongo 405‐271‐6617

Prevention & Preparedness Services ...... Deputy Commissioner Toni Frioux 405‐271‐3272

State Epidemiologist ...... Kristy Bradley, DVM, MPH 405‐271‐4060

Public Health Laboratory ...... Dr. S. Terrance Dunn 405‐271‐5070

Protective Health Services ...... Deputy Commissioner Henry Hartsell 405‐271‐5288

Medical Facilities Service ...... Lee Martin 405‐271‐6576

OKLAHOMA STATE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

Director ...... Ed Lake 405‐521‐3646

Office of Client Advocacy ...... Kathryn Brewer 405‐525‐4850

Office of Inspector General ...... Tony Bryan 405‐522‐5880

Office of Civil Rights ...... William Drapala 405‐521‐3529

Legal Division ...... Ronald Baze 405‐521‐3638

Child Welfare Services ...... Deborah Smith 405‐521‐6602

Child Welfare Services ...... Leslie Blazer 405‐521‐3561

Data Services Division ...... Mark Robison 405‐522‐1305

Finance & Administration Division...... David Ligon 405‐521‐3557

Community Living & Support Services ...... Mark Jones 405‐521‐6395

Adult & Family Services ...... Jim Struby 405‐521‐3076

OKLAHOMA HEALTH CARE AUTHORITY

Chief Executive Officer ...... Nico Gomez 405‐522‐7300

External Relations & Communication Services ...... Ed Long 405‐522‐7484

Behavioral Health Services ...... Kimre McGinnis 405‐522‐7080

Dental Services ...... Leon Bragg, D.D.S. 405‐522‐7592

Durable Medical Equipment ...... Stan Ruffner 405‐522‐7924

Medicaid Operations ...... Garth Splinter, MD 405‐522‐7300

Medical Authorization Unit ...... Maria Ordonez, RN 405‐522‐7371

Medical Management – Nurse Managers ...... Marlene Asmussen 405‐522‐7123

Pharmacy Services ...... Nancy Nesser, R.Ph, JD 405‐522‐7325

SoonerCare Operations – Member Services Supervisor ...... Kevin Rupe 405‐522‐7498

Health Policy ...... Tywanda Cox 405‐522‐7153

HIPAA and Compliance ...... Kay Ishcomer 405‐522‐7082

Provider Services Support ...... Melody Anthony 405‐522‐7360

Financial Services ...... Carrie Evans 405‐522‐7300

Financial Management, Provider Rates and Analysis ...... Debbie Ogles 405‐522‐7270

Third Party Liability & Claims Resolution ...... Lisa Gifford, JD 405‐522‐7427

General Counsel & Legal Services ...... Nicole Nantois, J.D. 405‐522‐7300

OKLAHOMA HEALTH CARE AUTHORITY cont’d

Provider Contracting ...... Peggy Hansen 405‐522‐7300

Policy, Planning and Integrity ...... Cindy Roberts 405‐522‐7253

Program Integrity & Accountability ...... Kelly Shropshier 405‐522‐7131

Waiver Development & Reporting ...... Melinda Jones 405‐522‐7125

OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Commissioner ...... Terri White 405‐522‐3908

Deputy Commissioner Communications & Prevention ...... Steve Buck 405‐522‐3908

Director, Provider Certification ...... John T. Hudgens 405‐522‐3900

OKLAHOMA FOUNDATION FOR MEDICAL QUALITY

CEO ...... Greg Kochn, BS, CPA 405‐840‐2891 or 1‐800‐522‐3414

Medical Director ...... Glenn H. Lytle, M.D. 405‐840‐2891 or 1‐800‐522‐3414

Health Care Quality Improvement Program ...... Debbie Cantrell, BS 405‐840‐2891 or 1‐800‐522‐3414

ASSOCIATIONS

OKLAHOMA STATE MEDICAL ASSOCIATION

Executive Director ...... Kenneth R. King 405‐843‐9571 Associate Executive Director ...... Kathy Musson 405‐843‐9571 Director of State Legislation and Political Affairs ...... Wes Glinsmann 405‐843‐9571

OKLAHOMA OSTEOPATHIC ASSOCIATION

Executive Director ...... Lynette McLain 405‐528‐4848

OKLAHOMA DENTAL ASSOCIATION

Executive Director ...... Lynn Means 405‐848‐8873

OKLAHOMA ASSOCIATION OF HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS (Formerly Ok Nursing Home Association) ...... Becky Moore 405‐524‐8338

OKLAHOMA NURSES ASSOCIATION Jane Nelson 405‐840‐3476

OKLAHOMA ASSOCIATION OF OPTOMETRIC PHYSICIANS Saundra Gragg‐Naifeh 405‐524‐1075

OKLAHOMA PHARMACISTS ASSOCIATION Phil Woodward 405‐557‐ 5772

OKLAHOMA PODIATRIC MEDICAL ASSOCIATION Mathew L. Winton 405‐286‐2800

LICENSURE

OKLAHOMA BOARD OF OSTEOPATHIC EXAMINERS

Executive Director ...... Debra Bruce, JD 405‐528‐8625

OKLAHOMA BOARD OF NURSING

Executive Director ...... Kim Glazier, RN, M.Ed. 405‐962‐1800

OKLAHOMA BOARD OF MEDICAL LICENSURE AND SUPERVISION

Executive Director ...... Lyle Kelsey 405‐962‐1400 x 114 Licensing ...... Robyn Hall 405‐962‐1400 x 113 Investigations ...... Reji Vorghese 405‐962‐1400 x 120

AMERICAN BOARD OF MEDICAL SPECAILTIES CERTIFICATION VERIFICATION 312‐436‐2600

STATE BOARD OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH LICENSURE 405‐522‐3698

OKLAHOMA BOARD OF DENTISTRY 405‐524‐4844

FEDERATION OF STATE MEDICAL BOARDS 817‐868‐4000

OKLAHOMA FUNERAL BOARD 405‐522‐1790

NATIONAL PRACTITIONER DATA BANK 800‐767‐6732

OKLAHOMA STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR LONG TERM CARE ADMINISTRATORS 405‐522‐1616

OKLAHOMA BOARD OF EXAMINERS IN OPTOMETRY 405‐733‐7836

OKLAHOMA PHARMACY BOARD 405‐521‐3815

OKLAHOMA STATE BOARD OF EXAMINERS OF PSYCHOLOGISTS 405‐524‐9094

OKLAHOMA STATE BOARD OF LICENSED SOCIAL WORKERS 405‐521‐3712

BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR SPEECH PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY 405‐524‐4955 or 1‐866‐840‐2774

CMS

DALLAS REGIONAL OFFICE OF THE CENTERS FOR MEDICARE AND MEDICAID SERVICES

Regional Administrator ...... Renard Murray 404‐562‐7150

DEPUTY Regional Administrator ...... David Wright Division of Survey and Certification Operations 214‐767‐0423

INSURANCE

OKLAHOMA INSURANCE DEPARTMENT John Doak 405‐521‐2668 or 1‐800‐522‐0071

EMPLOYEES GROUP INSURANCE DIVISION Administrator ...... Frank Wilson, Jr. 405‐717‐8701 or 1‐800‐543‐6044

BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD OF OKLAHOMA

CEO/President ...... Ted Haynes 918‐560‐3500 Vice President ...... Wyndham Kidd 918‐592‐9424 Corporate Medical Director ...... 918‐560‐3500

OKLAHOMA WORKERS COMPENSATION COMMISSION

Administrator ...... Rick Farmer, PhD. 405‐522‐8600 Asst. Administrator ...... Tom Hall 405‐522‐8600 OTHER FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS

OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Commissioner ...... Mark Costello 405‐528‐1500 or 1‐888‐269‐5353 Chief of Staff ...... 405‐528‐1500 or 1‐888‐269‐5353

OKLAHOMA OFFICE OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Director ...... Kim Edd Carter 405‐425‐7296 PHYSICIAN’S MANPOWER & TRAINING COMMISSION

Executive Director ...... James R.Bishop 405‐843‐5667 Deputy Executive Director ...... Charolotte Jiles 405‐843‐5667 Nursing Incentive Program ...... Michelle Cecil 405‐843‐5667 OKLAHOMA CORPORATION COMMISSION Director of Administration ...... Lori Wrotenberry 405‐521‐6709 OKLAHOMA STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

State Superintendent...... Janet Barresi 405‐521‐4516 EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMISSION

Executive Director ...... Richard McPherson 405‐557‐5366 OKLAHOMA TAX COMMISSION

Administrator ...... Tony Mastin 405‐521‐3214 or 1‐800‐522‐8165

Helpful Legislative and Healthcare Web Sites

FEDERAL

American Hospital Association ‐ www.aha.org

U.S. Senate ‐ www.senate.gov

U.S. House of Representatives ‐ www.house.gov

The Congressional Budget Office ‐ www.cbo.gov

U.S. General Accounting Office ‐ www.gao.gov

The Library of Congress ‐ www.loc.gov

Thomas ‐ Legislative Information of the Internet ‐ //thomas.loc.gov

STATE

Oklahoma State Legislature ‐ www.lsb.state.ok.us

Oklahoma Healthcare Authority ‐ www.ohca.state.ok.us

Oklahoma Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision ‐ www.medicalboard.org

Oklahoma Board of Nursing ‐ www.ok.gov/nursing

Oklahoma State Department of Health‐ www.health.ok.gov

Oklahoma Dept. of Mental Health and Substance Abuse ‐www.odmhsas.org

Oklahoma Insurance Department ‐ www.oid.state.ok.us

Oklahoma Primary Care Association ‐ www.okpca.org

OHA - PAC

Dear OHA‐PAC Hospital Coordinator:

Enclosed are your hospital’s materials for this year’s OHA‐PAC campaign. Thank you for your willingness to invest time and energy into this worthwhile cause. These materials are designed to assist you in your individual fundraising efforts. You may wish to adapt some of the enclosed samples to meet your specific needs.

During the OHA‐PAC annual meeting we will be recognizing those hospitals that have met their PAC goal. In addition, we will honor those individuals and hospitals that have made significant contributions to the OHA‐PAC.

• Those donating $350 or more become members of the OHA‐PAC and AHA‐PAC Capitol Clubs and are treated to a luncheon in their honor during the AHA annual meeting in Washington, D.D.

• In addition to the benefits of Capitol Club membership, a $500 contribution entitles AHA Chairman’s Circle members to an exclusive reception and preferred seating at the Capitol Club luncheon, held during the AHA’s annual meeting. Members also receive the Chairman’s Circle lapel pin and special recognition from AHA.

• Those donating $1,000 or more become members of the OHA‐PAC and AHA‐PAC Ben Franklin Club. Membership in the Ben Franklin Club entitles you to a special exclusive reception at the AHA Annual Convention, A special lapel pin and special recognition from the AHA.

The best way for you to kick off your hospital’s fundraising drive is for you to make the first donation. Your contribution will indicate to others that you personally support participation in the political process, and that you understand that decisions made in the state and federal political environments greatly impact your hospital’s continued ability to provide quality care to its patients.

If you need assistance, suggestions or more information pertaining to PAC fundraising, please do not hesitate to contact Craig Jones, Lynne White, or Melanie Morriss at OHA, (405) 427‐9537, or call OHA‐ PAC president, Jim Berry at (405) 527‐2207. Members of the OHA‐PAC board , the OHA board of trustees, and its council on policy and legislation are also available to speak to your management team, your trustees or others about the importance of your hospital’s participation in the political process.

Sincerely, Craig W. Jones Lynne S. White President Government Relations & Political Action

OHA-PAC Campaign PAC Coordinator Handouts

This PowerPoint resides on the OHA website, www.okoha.com , under the Legislative button listed as Grassroots Advocacy. These slide notes are for use in making OHA‐PAC presentations. If you have any questions, contact Patti Davis, Lynne White or Marie Hailey at (405) 427‐9537.

Slide 1 Politics are so complex, especially today, that most people tend to avoid them. However, the political system, regardless of its flaws, is the system we have in

Oklahoma H ospit al Associat ion place, and it is in our best interest to understand it, be involved with it, and have Political2003 Action Committee Campaign some control over what it brings to our locality.

the art of looking for trouble, The Oklahoma Hospital Association Political Action Committee (OHA‐ PAC) is a finding it incorrect l y, lyi ng the wrong remedies.” precision tool for that involvement, and this presentation will help you – Marx understand how it works.

Slide 2 OHA member hospitals consistently list advocacy as the association’s priority on their behalf. Webster defines advocacy as “speaking or writing in support of

“Speaking or writing in suppor t something”. Being effective with our legislative leaders is based upon personal of somet hi ng”- W ebst er relationships, so it’s everyone’s job to know who their elected officials are and to nurture those relationships. Don’t rely upon your neighboring hospitals and based upon relationships their employees to look after your hospital’s interest legislatively. zIseveryone’s job

zRelies upon your personal involvement

Slide 3 OHA‐PAC is an officially organized political action committee that is governed by the OHA‐PAC Board of Directors. The OHA‐PAC board makes recommendations OHA-PAC – W hat is to the OHA Board of Directors. The OHA Board of Directors is ultimately

responsible for all actions of the OHA‐PAC. OHA‐ PAC is a joint PAC with the American Hospital Association and we comply with both state and federal ethics Directed Boar d

AH A rules. t l rules

Slide 4 The OHA‐PAC Board makes recommendations on disbursement policies that are ultimately approved by the OHA Board of Directors. Disbursements for OHA-PAC – Who does it suppor t ? incumbents are based upon past voting records on key hospital and healthcare

issues. OHA‐PAC does not contribute to open races or state‐wide campaigns. OHA‐PAC does not support elected officials whose voting records indicate they zLegislators who i ssues don’t support our industry. zBased on voting records ncumbents vs. races

OHA-PAC Campaign PAC Coordinator Handouts

Slide 5

– W ho can gi ve? State and federal ethics rules govern how political campaigns are financed. According to these rules, since OHA‐PAC is a joint PAC with AHA, salaried hospital staff and trustees may make personal contributions. Hourly staff may

zSal ar i ed St af f also make personal contributions, but these contributions are limited to state disbursements only. zHourly st af f limited to st at e campaigns

Slide 6 PAC dollars never buy votes but they do help gain access to elected officials. Elected officials are mindful of support that is received from all sources. Those

OHA-PAC –Why shoul d I give? who oppose our issues financially support elected officials, and we must do likewise in order to gain equal access. Participating in the PAC is a necessary part of the legislative process. PAC dollars are an investment in your job and

zBuys access, not vot es z your hospital’s future, and should be understood in that way. The legislative supports process affects every area of your job in the hospital, from financing government zInvestment in YOUR future zLegislation affect s your hospital 24/7 programs, like Medicare, Medicaid, and workers compensation, to the regulating of healthcare delivery by state and federal agencies.

Slide 7 Ethics laws prohibit corporations from contributing to political campaigns, therefore, OHA‐PAC cannot accept contributions from hospitals. However, with OHA-PAC – How can I gi ve? authorization from the hospital CEO, we can accept personal contributions from individuals in the hospital industry who seek to invest in their jobs and their

zPersonal industry. Checks and credit cards are accepted, and automatic bank drafts are a zAutomatic bank drafts convenient alternative. Hospitals can even allow employees to cash in paid‐days‐ zCredit cards

zCash Paid Days Off off to write personal checks to the OHA‐PAC. And, of course, cash also works.

How do we spend your 100% of your contribution to OHA‐PAC goes to elected officials who are OHA-PAC supportive of our issues. On the federal level, congressional disbursements are

allocated by AHA with OHA’s input. On the state level, campaign contributions depend entirely upon our members’ contributions. In the last election cycle, z z Commit to primary, run-off, general OHA‐PAC spent over $69,000 on state races. We commit to support candidates

z $$$ AH A input through each election cycle, so it is possible to contribute to a candidate for the primary, run‐off, and general election. Slide 8

OHA-PAC Campaign PAC Coordinator Handouts

Slide 9 Every hospital whose employees participate in OHA‐PAC has the opportunity to hand‐carry an OHA‐PAC campaign contribution check to their local candidate. OHA-PAC “Show me the money” This allows you and your hospital the ability to be involved in state and local

public policy issues on a personal level. Some elected officials study ethics reports to find out who from their districts contribute to OHA‐PAC. OHA‐PAC is a over disbursements district tool you can use to become vested in your hospital’s political future. look at our et hics

for

Slide 10 We hope this presentation has helped you understand the OHA‐PAC. It doesn’t take a large contribution to make a big difference. There is strength in numbers,

and if each member contributes a minimum amount, it will have a maximum OHA-PAC – Use it! impact. The most gratifying benefit of supporting your PAC is knowing that while government has many problems, you have chosen to be part of the

“Everything is changing. solution. People are taking their comedians seriously and t heir politicians as a joke.” – W ill Rogers This quote from Will Rogers in the 1930’s has become almost a truism today, and while we have to laugh to keep from crying over the complex problems in healthcare today, we must seriously support our legislators as they try to find solutions. OHA‐PAC is your tool – use it!

2015 OHA-PAC Board

Officers:

President James Berry, CEO, Purcell Municipal Hospital, Purcell Vice President Shelly Dunham, CEO, Okeene Municipal Hospital Chairman Craig W. Jones, President, Oklahoma Hospital Association Secretary/Treasurer Rick Snyder, V.P. Finance & Information Services, Oklahoma Hospital Association

Regional Representatives:

Oklahoma City James Moore (2016) INTEGRIS Southwest Medical Center, OKC Southeast David Keith, CEO, McAlester Regional Health Center, McAlester (2016) Northeast Jerry Moeller, President, Stillwater Medical Center (2014) Northwest Shelly Dunham, CEO Okeene Municipal Hospital (2014) Tulsa Richard Boone, President, St. John Foundation, Tulsa (2015) Southwest Corey Lively, CEO, Elkview General Hospital, Hobart (2015)

A Guide to Effective OHA-PAC Solicitation

The most effective method for any kind of fundraising is one‐on‐one, face‐to‐face solicitation. This method is most persuasive because it is more difficult to say "no" to someone who is standing in front of you, looking you in the eye. On the contrary, it is much easier to refuse to accept a telephone call or to discard a piece of mail. One‐on‐one solicitation allows you to answer questions about how OHA‐PAC works and why it is important for Oklahoma's hospitals to be involved in the political process through political action committee contributions.

Tips for one-on-one solicitation

Contribute to the OHA‐PAC Yourself

Actions speak louder than words! Your personal contribution to OHA‐PAC clearly indicates your support of the OHA‐PAC. And, you cannot make a truly effective case for PAC contributions if you have not contributed yourself. Once you have done so, the next step is to educate your administrative staff, department heads, board members and volunteers about the importance of OHA‐PAC to the future of your hospital. This can be accomplished during a group meeting with them, a one‐on‐one discussion, or can be explained using a form letter similar to the samples enclosed in this package of materials. Individuals should also understand that giving to OHA‐PAC is strictly voluntary.

Be Prepared

Know as much as you can about the person you are soliciting before contacting them. For example, know whether or not they have given to the OHA‐PAC in the past and if so, how much they have given, what job they hold and which is‐ sues interest them most.

Introduce Yourself

Give your credentials as they relate to the PAC i.e., how many years you have worked with the hospital or association…how many years you have been a supporter of the PAC…what title you hold with the PAC or association.

Make a Connection to the Individual

Based on your research, try to make a personal connection with the prospect. Think about what you have in common: work, home town, common issues or interests, a mutual acquaintance, age of children, etc. Remember, a good solicitation will depend on the rapport between the solicitor and the prospect.

Tell the Individual Why You Are Calling/Meeting

Don't apologize for discussing or calling about the PAC. Thank him/her for giving you a few minutes to discuss why PAC is so important to hospitals and health systems.

Make Your Case Clearly

Explain why giving to the PAC is so important. Do not assume your prospect understands the connection between the PAC and his or her work.

Suggested Messages:

 Hospitals and health systems need a voice in Congress and in our state Legislature, where key decisions that impact health care are being made every day. OHA‐PAC can give us this voice by helping to elect officials at the state and federal levels who are willing to stand up for our concerns.

 An average of 40 percent of hospital budgets comes from Medicare and Medicaid. How much these programs pay providers is based on decisions made in our state Legislature and in Congress. We need to make sure that these decision‐makers understand the important role hospitals play.

 Our hospital, employees, and patients clearly benefit when elected officials are willing to listen to health care concerns.

 Other interest groups, often with conflicting concerns, have seen the benefit of their political action committees and their positive effects on lobbying efforts. These groups' contributions to candidates have far surpassed past contributions to the OHA‐PAC.

Ask An Open‐ended Question & Listen

Ask the individual a question that will enable you to learn what is of concern to him/her. This added information will help you make the best case for contributing to the OHA‐PAC.

 Examples: Have you ever been approached before about participating in the OHA‐PAC?  Have you ever been active in politics?  Did you follow the new legislation that was recently introduced?  Have you heard about efforts to abolish the confidentiality of our present peer review process?

Allow the prospect to ask you questions about the PAC.

Ask for the Contribution

Ask for a specific amount – people want to know what is expected of them. Don't be afraid to ask for a Ben Franklin ($1,000), Chairman's Circle ($500) or Capitol Club ($350) contribution. If the prospect gave last year, remind him/her how much they gave and ask the person to consider a specific amount.

You may want to divide your hospital's goal by the number of people you wish to solicit and ask for that amount (i.e. $500 goal/25 employees = $25 individual contribution); or you may decide to ask for a different amount from each "type" of employee, trustee, etc. Often, people do not contribute because they are afraid of giving "too little." Therefore, whichever method you use, it is important to emphasize that any contribution, regardless of the amount, is appreciated.

Stop

After you ask for a specific amount of money, one of the hardest parts is simply to stop. You have asked a question, and you now must wait for an answer. This can be tough, but try to resist the temptation to fill the long moment of silence that may result while prospective donors consider your request. The only way to find out an answer to your question is to wait for a reply.

Confirm the Pledge or a Date for a Follow‐Up Call

If you are unable to confirm a specific amount for a contribution, make a specific date for a follow‐up phone call or meeting.

Follow Up On Any Specific Request

If you agreed to send any additional materials to the prospect, make sure you follow up on the specific request.

Say Thank You

Every individual contribution–no matter how small or large–should be recognized and appreciated. Remember, the end of your solicitation today is the beginning of your solicitation for next year. So, remember to say thanks!

Other Fundraising Ideas

NOTE: Some hospitals across the country have raised PAC monies by con‐ ducting special fundraising events, such as raffles, and tennis and golf tournaments. More information about organizing these functions can be obtained by contacting OHA.

 These types of creative special events are good employee motivators and morale boosters, and are limited only by your imagination. A promise to treat all OHA‐PAC contributors to lunch or dinner, or to a complimentary lunch or dessert in the cafeteria, might work just as well in your particular situation. Only you can be the judge of what will work best for you.

 You should let your employees know that your hospital's success in regards to OHA‐PAC will be recognized during the OHA‐PAC annual business meeting.

All PAC contributions should be sent directly to OHA‐PAC, 4000 Lincoln Boulevard, Oklahoma City, OK 73105. You may prefer to forward all of your hospital's contributions at once, along with the enclosed OHA‐PAC Contributor Check‐Off Sheet. Prior to mailing your hospital's contributions to OHA, be sure that each contributor has completed the OHA‐PAC Contribution Card, attached to each OHA‐PAC brochure, so that each donation can be properly documented according to Federal Election Commission's guidelines.

Good luck with your fundraising campaign!!!! If you need assistance or more information, please do not hesitate to contact Lynne White or Craig Jones at OHA, (405) 427‐9537.

Suggested Steps for Launching an Effective OHA-PAC Campaign

Read the materials under "Solicitation Guidelines." If you have questions or need clarification, contact Lynne White, Sandra Harrison or Craig Jones at OHA (405) 427‐9537.

Designate a hospital coordinator to oversee your hospital's in‐house campaign for hospital management staff, trustees and volunteers.

Make your own contribution first.

View the OHA‐PAC Grassroots Advocacy Power Point Presentation with your PAC coordinator, then launch your OHA‐PAC campaign with a party! Invite all health care personnel, trustees and volunteers who can be solicited for OHA‐PAC. Have your coordinator present the Power Point slideshow to them. Generate enthusiasm by challenging them to become OHA‐PAC members with a contribution of $25. Provide a reward for 100% participation.

Make a list of all health care personnel, trustees and volunteers being solicited for OHA‐PAC on the enclosed OHA‐PAC Contributor Check‐Off Sheet. Use this sheet to check off contributions when they are returned to the CEO's office.

Distribute a letter from the hospital CEO, on OHA‐PAC stationery or on the CEO's personal stationery, to department heads and administrative staff, trustees and volunteers. (No hospital funds can be used to underwrite PAC fundraising activities including mailing costs.) Enclose an OHA‐PAC brochure and the flyer entitled, "Frequently Asked Questions." Identify a fundraising deadline for your hospital and emphasize the need for contributions to be received by this deadline.

Please make sure personal checks are made out to "OHA‐PAC," signed by the payee, and that the contribution cards are entirely filled out. If the contributor has elected the automatic bank draft method of contribution, make sure they have filled out and signed the authorization agreement. Check to make sure that the "Hospital/Organization to Receive Credit" line on the contribution card is also completed.

Follow up with a personal memo or request to those individuals whom you have solicited but who have not yet responded to your first request.

Promptly forward your hospital's contributions and your Contribution Check‐Off Sheet to OHA‐PAC, 4000 Lincoln Boulevard, Oklahoma City, OK 73105. Our deadline to receive all contributions is September 30 to be recognized at OHA’s Annual Convention.

Send a letter of thanks to your contributors, expressing your gratitude for their support of the OHA‐ PAC. You may use OHA‐PAC stationery, cards or personal stationery.

Be recognized among your hospital colleagues during the OHA‐PAC annual meeting for achieving your goal!!

OHA-PAC Supply Request Form

Please send me the following items for which I have indicated quantities below:

OHA‐PAC Brochures/Contribution Cards

OHA‐PAC Letterhead

OHA‐PAC Envelopes

OHA‐PAC Envelopes Self‐Addressed to OHA

"Frequently Asked Questions" Flyer

Sample Form Letters from CEO on diskette (indicate word processing format you use: )

Other

Person requesting supplies:

Name Title

Phone Number, in case of inquiries:

Organization:

Mailing Address:

Mail, fax or email your request to:

OHA‐PAC 4000 Lincoln Boulevard Oklahoma City, OK 73105 FAX: (405) 424‐4507 Email: [email protected]

OHA-PAC Contributor Check-Off Sheet

OHA Member Name

Contact Person Phone

Contributor Name Affiliation Date Date Date Sent Contribution check Distributed Received to OHA Amount category(s)* T A M V A

* T = Trustee; A = Administrator/CEO; M = MD/Professional; V = Volunteer/Auxiliarian; A = Affiliated Society Member

Please forward contributions to: OHA‐PAC Oklahoma Hospital Association 4000 Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105

OHA-PAC Hospital Coordinator Designation Card

Please designate a Hospital Coordinator.

( ) CEO's Name Telephone

Hospital Coordinator's Name Title

Hospital Name

Address City State Zip

( ) ( ) Telephone Fax E‐mail

Mail to: OHA‐PAC 4000 Lincoln Boulevard – Oklahoma City, OK 73105

FAX: (405) 424‐4507 or email: [email protected]

Making an Impact

Supporting an Effective OHA-PAC "Frequently Asked Questions"

Why do hospitals need a political action committee?

The fundamental purpose of OHA‐PAC is to provide OHA and its members with an additional tool, which complements our legislative efforts.

Elected officials at the Oklahoma Capitol and in Washington, D.C. are increasingly making critical decisions that impact Oklahoma hospitals and health systems. These decisions profoundly affect a hospital's ability to fulfill its mission of providing high quality, affordable health care.

Hospitals and health systems need a unified voice at the Oklahoma Legislature and before members of Congress. OHA‐PAC can give us this voice by helping to elect officials at the state and national level who are willing to stand up for our concerns.

The OHA‐PAC allows Oklahoma hospitals and health systems to positively impact the election of political candidates who recognize and support health care's important role in society.

Due to the tremendous financial and regulatory power the government has over health care, the political reality is that hospitals must be willing to work closely with elected officials.

How much of my PAC contribution actually goes to candidates?

One hundred percent of your contribution is used to support candidates who understand and support Oklahoma hospitals' concerns. No portion is used for staff salaries, overhead, or for expenses associated with lobbying activities. Approximately 60% of the funds support candidates at the state level; the remainder of the funds is sent to the American Hospital Association's PAC to support national candidates who have demonstrated a continued commitment to hospitals.

Who decides where OHA-PAC money goes?

Decisions to contribute to a candidate are made in consultation with the OHA government relations' staff, after careful evaluation of a candidate's voting record, political principles and positions on issues of concern to Oklahoma hospitals. Although federal and state contributions to a PAC cannot be earmarked for a particular candidate, your suggestions of candidates to receive contributions are welcomed and appreciated, and will be given careful consideration.

How are contributions presented to candidates?

Once a candidate has been selected to receive funds from OHA‐PAC, the local hospital CEO may be asked to make the presentation. If a hospital CEO makes the presentation, it is helpful to include a member of the OHA staff. If the hospital CEO cannot or prefers not to make the presentation, a board member or an OHA staff member may do so. If it is not possible to present the contribution in person or at a fundraising event, the candidate is contacted by a member of OHA staff to let him/her know they will be receiving a contribution.

Do PAC contributions buy or guarantee favorable votes on particular health care issues?

No. Contrary to some beliefs, a contribution to the OHA‐PAC does not buy or guarantee votes on a particular issue. However, our experience indicates that legislators who have received PAC contributions are more willing to listen to our concerns and are more supportive of hospitals' positions. By contributing to a political campaign, you are simply increasing the odds that a health care supporter will win and will keep the legislative door open after the election.

A strong OHA‐PAC assures you, and other members of the hospital family, a voice before public policymakers.

Do I have to contribute a lot to join OHA-PAC?

No. Any amount is gratefully accepted and will make a significant difference in helping us shape a supportive state Legislature and Congress.

What are my options for payment?

Donations to the OHA‐PAC can be made by writing a personal check, by using paid‐days off, a personal credit card (VISA or MasterCard), automatic bank draft, or by paying in cash. Cash donations may not exceed $50, and no corporate contributions can be accepted.

Will we endanger our organization's 501(c)(3) status by participating in the OHA-PAC?

As charitable, tax‐exempt 501(c)(3) organizations, hospitals are prohibited from participating directly in partisan political campaigns. As a trade association, however, OHA and AHA are exempt (from taxes) under a different portion of the code, and are permitted to participate in political races through their joint federal/state PAC.

As long as individuals are solicited for PAC contributions by other involved individuals, on their own time and without the use of hospital resources, no hospital's tax status is jeopardized.

However, it is imperative to remember that all potential solicitees must understand that PAC contributions are voluntary and in no way a condition of job security or advancement.

Who is "fair game?" Who can we legally solicit without stepping outside the law?

Those who are considered "solicitable" must fall into two categories: the first being salaried hospital employees, the second a supervisory, managerial/administration position with professional responsibilities. If any individual within the hospital falls under the second but not the first, or vice versa, they cannot be solicited for an AHAPAC contribution.

State laws also permit contributions from non‐salaried employees.

An exception to this includes hospital trustees, who have recently been approved for federal PAC solicitation under the FEC (Federal Election Commission) campaign guidelines.

Although federal law prohibits PAC contributions from hospital auxilians, our state laws permit these contributions.

In order to comply with the Federal Election Commission (FEC), contributions received from individuals who are NOT trustees or executive or administrative personnel of an AHA member organization will be used to SUPPORT STATE CANDIDATES ONLY.

Is my contribution tax-deductible?

No. Contributions to political action committees are not deductible on federal and state income tax returns.

What is "prior authorization," and what steps need to be taken in order to obtain it?

Since OHA and AHA are in the unique situation of having institutional, rather than individual members, OHA‐PAC, acting as a collecting agent on AHA's behalf, must have prior authorization from the hospital CEO before soliciting individuals employed by that hospital.

The Bottom Line: A hospital must be an AHA member institution and the CEO must agree to have his/her employees solicited before any PAC activity is underway. Note: Contributions received from employees of hospitals which are not members of AHA will be used to support state candidates only.

How long is a "prior authorization" valid?

OHA‐PAC collects prior authorizations from hospitals that cover a four‐year period. Please check with Melanie Morriss at OHA on the status of this if you are uncertain.

What are the limits on individual contributions to OHA-PAC, and what are the limitations on PAC contributions directly to candidates?

According to federal law, an individual can give any one political action committee no more than $5,000 per year. The PAC, in turn, can give no more than $5,000 per candidate per election campaign. When there is a primary and general election, the maximum contribution is $10,000, or $5,000 for each campaign for federal campaigns. The limit is $5,000 per campaign per election cycle for state candidates.

Who can I call if I still have questions about the OHA-PAC?

The staff at the Oklahoma Hospital Association will be happy to answer your questions and to explain why we think joining OHA‐PAC is so important. Please do not hesitate to contact Lynne White, or Melanie Morriss at (405) 427‐9537.

Sample Letter to Dept. Heads From CEO (Use CEO's personal stationery, not hospital letterhead.)

Dear Management Employee:

Only a few organizations warrant enough support for me to ask you to make a personal contribution. The Oklahoma Hospital Association's Political Action Committee (OHA‐PAC) is one of these organizations.

I know how dedicated you are to our hospital and to this community. Increasingly, our ability to provide care to our patients and economic security for our employees is controlled or influenced by decisions being made at the state Capitol and in Washington, D.C. We have to influence the political process by making sure candidates elected to the Oklahoma Legislature and the United States Congress understand health care issues and are willing to listen to our concerns.

The OHA‐PAC was formed in 1989 as a joint state/federal political action committee of the Oklahoma and the American Hospital Associations. The OHA‐PAC strengthens the political voice of Oklahoma hospitals by supporting political candidates who are willing to stand up for our concerns and understand the fundamental role hospitals and health systems play in the future of health care.

I have already contributed to the OHA‐PAC, and I hope that you will join me in becoming a supporter. Any contribution

$1000, $500, $250, $100 or $50 will make a signiicant difference in our efforts to help shape a supportive Congress and state Legislature. Please take a moment to review the enclosed brochure and "Frequently Asked Questions" flyer. Once you have had time to review this information and determine how much you are able to contribute, please fill out the enclosed donation card and return it to me, so that we can forward all contributions from our hospital to the OHA‐PAC.

The debate over health care will continue at the state and federal level. Decisions that impact our ability to care for our patients will be made. The only question is whether or not we participate in the debate in an effective and efficient manner. Supporting the OHA‐PAC is one way you can assist our hospital in having a meaningful voice in the outcome of these critical health care issues.

Thank you for joining me in this important effort. Sincerely,

Your Name

P.S. For your convenience, you can make your contribution by personal check, personal credit card, or payroll deduction.

Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes.

Sample Letter to Hospital Trustees From CEO (Use CEO's personal stationery, not hospital letterhead.)

Dear Hospital Trustee:

Only a few organizations warrant enough support for me to ask you to make a personal contribution. The Oklahoma Hospital Association's Political Action Committee (OHA‐PAC) is one of these organizations.

I know how dedicated you are to our hospital and to this community. Increasingly, our ability to provide care to our patients and economic security for our employees is controlled or influenced by decisions being made at the state Capitol and in Washington, D.C. We have to influence the political process by making sure candidates elected to the Oklahoma Legislature and the United States Congress understand health care issues and are willing to listen to our concerns.

Due to time constraints and personal and professional commitments, it is often difficult for hospital CEOs and trustees to individually participate in the political process. The OHA‐PAC is one way we can participate and can let our voices be heard. By combining the financial resources of many, OHA‐PAC is able to support candidates who share our concerns.

The OHA‐PAC was formed in 1989 as a joint state/federal political action committee of the Oklahoma and the American Hospital Associations. The OHA‐PAC strengthens the political voice of Oklahoma hospitals by supporting political candidates who are willing to stand up for our concerns and understand the fundamental role hospitals and health systems play in the future of health care.

I have already contributed to the OHA‐PAC, and I hope that you will join me in becoming a supporter. Any contribution – $1000 , $500, $250, $100 or $50 – combined with those of other trustees, will make a significant difference in our efforts to help shape a supportive Congress and state Legislature. Please take a moment to review the enclosed brochure and "Frequently Asked Questions" flyer. Once you have had time to review this information and determine how much you are able to contribute, please fill out the enclosed donation card and return it to me, so that we can forward all contributions from our hospital to the OHA‐PAC.

The debate over health care will continue at the state and federal level. Decisions that impact our ability to care for our patients will be made. The only question is whether or not we participate in the debate in an effective and efficient manner. Supporting the OHA‐PAC is one way you can assist our hospital in having a meaningful voice in the outcome of these critical health care issues.

As a volunteer leader of this hospital, you play a critical role in shaping the future of our hospital and our community. Your contribution to OHA‐PAC is simply another means available to ensure that the future political climate is favorable to this hospital's ability to continue providing valuable services to our community.

If you have any questions, please contact me or call the staff at the Oklahoma Hospital Association, (405) 427‐9537. Thank you for joining me in this important effort.

Sincerely,

Your Name

Sample Letter to Hospital Volunteers From CEO (Use CEO's personal stationery, not hospital letterhead.)

Dear Hospital Volunteer:

Only a few organizations warrant enough support for me to ask you to make a personal contribution. The Oklahoma Hospital Association's Political Action Committee (OHA‐PAC) is one of these organizations.

I know how dedicated you are to our hospital and to this community. Increasingly, our ability to provide care to our patients and economic security for our employees is controlled or influenced by decisions being made at the state Capitol and in Washington, D.C. We have to influence the political process by making sure candidates elected to the Oklahoma Legislature and the United States Congress understand health care issues and are willing to listen to our concerns.

Due to time constraints and personal commitments, it is often difficult for hospital CEOs and volunteers to individually participate in the political process. The OHA‐PAC is one way we can participate and can let our voices be heard. By combining the financial resources of many, OHA‐PAC is able to support candidates who share our concerns.

The OHA‐PAC was formed in 1989 as a joint state/federal political action committee of the Oklahoma and the American Hospital Associations. The OHA‐PAC strengthens the political voice of Oklahoma hospitals by supporting political candidates who are willing to stand up for our concerns and understand the fundamental role hospitals and health systems play in the future of health care.

I have already contributed to the OHA‐PAC, and I hope that you will join me in becoming a supporter. Your contribution of $250, $100, $50, $25 or any amount combined with those from other volunteers, will make a significant difference in our efforts to help shape a supportive Congress and state Legislature. Please take a moment to review the enclosed brochure and "Frequently Asked Questions" flyer. Once you have had time to review this information and determine how much you are able to contribute, please fill out the enclosed donation card and return it to me, so that we can forward all contributions from our hospital to the OHA‐PAC.

The debate over health care will continue at the state and federal level. Decisions that impact our ability to care for our patients will be made. The only question is whether or not we participate in the debate in an effective and efficient manner. Supporting the OHA‐PAC is one way you can assist our hospital in having a meaningful voice in the outcome of these critical health care issues.

As a volunteer of this hospital, you play a critical role in shaping the future of our hospital and our community. Your contribution to OHA‐PAC is simply another means available to ensure that the future political climate is favorable to this hospital's ability to continue providing valuable services to our community.

If you have any questions, please contact me or call the staff at the Oklahoma Hospital Association, (405) 427‐9537. Thank you for joining me in this important effort.

Sincerely,

Your Name