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Governor Kevin Still delivered his "State of the State" speech Monday, at the start of a new session of the Oklahoma State Legislature. He highlighted last year's new investments in education, big steps in judicial reform and a conservative budget that had agencies changing how they work without spending more money.

 

The governor warned lawmakers that the downturn in oil and gas meant they'll have a little less to spend this year. Conservative budgeting was the theme of the Governor's speech as he called for more savings, and cuts in regulations and the bureaucracy that keeps it going.

 

Governor Stitt said that's because Oklahoma has far more regulations than surrounding states - and he wants to change that. He also called for another $100 million dollars for the state savings account.

 

The Governor's plans call for consolidating several state agencies to streamline the workforce, and transitioning state workers into at-will employees while rewarding high performers with better pay.