Student-led pollinator designation bill wins committee approval

Senator Bullard brought forward "senate bill 20 65" and asked the committee to consider a package of bills that would give state recognition to native pollinators. Lucille Morehouse, a 15-year-old Ford State ambassador from Choctaw County, described starting a pollinator project at age 11, writing grants and distributing seed packets nationwide.

"I'm here today to help recognize and give state designations to 5 of these pollinators so people across Oklahoma can recognize and protect these important species," Morehouse told the committee.

Committee members asked technical questions, including whether the European honey bee would be included; the sponsors said the focus is native pollinators and that they consulted Oklahoma State University entomology experts in drafting the bills. Senator Petersen and others described the bills as educational and a way for students and FFA chapters to learn the legislative process.

After brief questions and no extended debate, the clerk recorded 12 ayes, 0 nays and the chair declared the measure passed in committee.

The bill advances with committee support and will be scheduled for further floor or committee action consistent with legislative calendar.