Ellyn Hefner joins Governor Stitt for Ceremonial Signing of Oklahoma Access and Achievement Act

Oklahoma City -- State Representative Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City, celebrated with Governor Kevin Stitt and fellow advocates the ceremonial signing of a new law to "deliver big" for Oklahomans with disabilities.

The new law expands Oklahoma Promise to set up scholarships for Oklahomans to attend qualified post-secondary programs designed to support students with intellectual disabilities.

“This is an exciting day for our state, we are expanding laws to include Oklahomans that have previously been left behind. When we support education opportunities for everyone, it strengthens our entire state and workforce,” Hefner said.

“I applaud the bi-partisan effort to get this law across the finish line.”

Joining Hefner at the new law's ceremonial signing, hosted by the governor, was joined by Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, Senator Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, teachers and students from SoonerWorks at the University of Oklahoma, Opportunity Orange at Oklahoma State University and the RiverHawks from Northeastern State University.

Sen. Seifried and Rep. McBride have worked with Hefner and other supporters of economic progress for Oklahomans with disabilities.

(https://www.citynewsokc.com/community/oklahoma-senate-considering-house-changes-to-oklahoma-promise-bill-extending-benefits-to-students-with-intellectual/article_094d6d8c-e8ff-11ed-92fb-5f78855f72e6.html )

Also present at the recent signing ceremony were stakeholders and advocates from the ARC, Oklahoma Developmental Disability Council, integral House Staff, and more. All these experts were instrumental in the passing of this legislation.

Hefner concluded a press release, transmitted to CityNewsOKC from House legislative staff: “These programs at our state schools increase development and growth of academic, work, and personal skills. Along with independent living, friendships, and self-advocacy. The outcome data shows program participants are employed post-graduation at significantly higher rates with higher average wages.”