OPEA

Representative Lisa Billy of District 42 received the “Legislator of the Year” award at the Oklahoma Public Employees Association’s 35th Annual Convention, August 28, in Oklahoma City. The award was presented to Representative Billy at the annual awards luncheon. Rumble, the Oklahoma City Thunder mascot, assisted with the program.

Representative Billy was one of three legislators to be honored this year. Senator Brian Bingman and Representative Scott Inman also received the award.

“Representative Billy has been a true champion for state employees and services during her time in the House,” OPEA Executive Director Sterling Zearley said when presenting Representative Billy the award. “In addition to her 100 percent voting record, she has authored legislation to double longevity and give retirees a break by blending the insurance premiums.

“This year she exhibited outstanding leadership and put her career on the line to save Southern Oklahoma Resource Center in Paul’s Valley,” continued Zearley. “Since the end of session, she has continued to fight for SORC by leading tours of the facility, meeting with agency officials and quizzing administrators at a recent interim study. Today, thanks to Representative Billy and her friends, SORC’s future is more secure”

Representative Billy was elected to the House of Representatives from District 42 in 2004. She is chair of the General Government Committee and also serves on the Public Health Committee and the Public Health and Social Services Subcommittee on Appropriations.

"I am grateful for everything you all do,” said Representative Billy accepting the award. “When my constituents call and they need help, whether it’s for senior citizens or families that have children with needs, I can pick up the phone and call OPEA members across my district. You all build the infrastructure of this state. You all make the state meet the needs of its people. I appreciate everything that you do to bring issues to my attention. Continue doing it. Continue standing for what is right.”