New legislation signed into law by Governor Kevin Stitt created a new commission which will direct the state’s workforce development strategy and initiatives.
The Oklahoma Workforce Commission will be led by private sector business executives. Senate Bill 621, authored by Sen. Adam Pugh (R-Edmond) and state Rep. Brian Hill (R-Mustang), is designed to limit duplication in the current workforce pipeline and ultimately lead to more direct and efficient completion of education pathways to jobs. In the end, that means more skilled workers for employers and better paying careers for state residents.
“As Oklahoma’s economic outlook continues to expand, it’s pertinent that our workforce grows with the demand, which is why this session I challenged the Workforce Transformation Task Force with identifying our state’s key areas of improvement on this front. And while our work isn’t over, I’m thrilled about the momentum we’ve made,” Stitt said in a prepared statement. “Through improvements like creating a Secretary of Workforce and signing SB 621, Oklahoma can set up the framework for meaningful solutions to grow, develop and maximize our state’s labor pool to expand our state’s economy and create better jobs for Oklahomans.”
For the first in Oklahoma’s history, a workforce plan will have state funds attached to it, Pugh said.
“We want to ensure when we’re going out around the state and doing economic development, the workforce is available as companies are expanding, growing, and moving into the state of Oklahoma,” the senator said.
After being amended in a Senate committee, the bill passed with overwhelming support, 34-10, in the full Senate and with a strong majority in the House, 60-32.
“I believe this is the moment we’ll look back on decades from now and know this was a pivotal shift for us as a state. This is a tremendous victory for our workforce, our families and for Oklahoma,” said Hill.
Chad Warmington, president and CEO of The State Chamber, is a leading proponent of revitalizing the workforce and supports the creation of the Oklahoma Workforce Commission.
“This is a huge step forward for Oklahoma. Workforce is the number one concern of businesses in our state. We appreciate the years of work that so many have put in to make this a reality. We thank the Legislature and the governor for seeing this across the finish line. Senate Bill 621 makes transformational changes to workforce development that will benefit Oklahoma. We are excited for the future growth and prosperity this will bring to our state,” he said.