Legislators are back at the Capitol

I hope everyone had a great time with their loved ones during Easter weekend. We are now back at the Capitol, and it’s a busy time.

This year, House Republicans have passed several pieces of legislation that have dismantled any efforts to implement Biden’s liberal agenda in our state.

Recently, in response to the pressing issue of border security, House Bill 3071 was proposed as a preemptive measure to deter illegal entry into Oklahoma. With porous borders and ineffective federal policies, every state in the United States is, in effect, a border state.

It would prohibit state revenue from being used to provide benefits to illegal immigrants unless the costs are related to education, jailing, or transporting an illegal immigrant to an out-of-state destination. HB3071 would apply to all state agencies, public or private entities, meaning they must enact policies to ensure compliance or risk losing funding through state taxes.

To clarify, this legislation does not prohibit providing services to illegal individuals. However, if someone offers these services knowingly, they would not qualify for state tax appropriation.

House Republicans have continued to pass preventative measures in the wake of the Roe v. Wade ruling. Protecting the rights and lives of the unborn is one of my top priorities. The House passed House Bill 3013, which would make it a felony to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute abortioninducing drugs to another person.

Being pro-life means protecting life at all stages. More than ever, it’s crucial for communities to support pregnant women. With that said, I am proud to have authored House Bill 1788, another pro-life measure.

HB1788 would introduce a temporary income tax credit for donations to qualified pregnancy resource centers. This new legislation proactively promotes a culture that values and safeguards human life. Supporting these centers demonstrates our community’s tangible commitment to assisting new mothers and protecting the lives of their unborn children.

Again, thank you for electing me to serve District 21. It is truly an honor and privilege to represent you at the State Capitol. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any concerns at 405-5577366 or cody.maynard@okhouse. gov.

Rep. Cody Maynard, a Republican, serves District 21 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which covers Bryan and Marshall counties.