Oklahoma House Democratic leader reflects on final session, calls for focus on cost of living

“It’s my final regular legislative session, so there are a lot of mixed emotions,” said House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson. “But overall, I left feeling pretty disappointed.”

Concerns Over Cost of Living

According to the lawmaker, the legislature failed to adequately address what Oklahomans say matters most: the rising cost of living.

“People are talking about the cost of groceries, gas, home insurance—basic necessities,” said Rep. Munson. “Inflation and cost of living are top concerns, but we didn’t really address those issues.”

She criticized lawmakers for prioritizing funding for programs like private school vouchers and savings accounts over redirecting tax dollars to areas such as public education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

“We’re not delivering for everyday people,” said Rep. Munson. “We should be putting those dollars to work in ways that directly help Oklahomans.”

Education Efforts Fall Short

While acknowledging discussions around improving education, she says the legislature didn’t go far enough.

“We talked about education outcomes, but we didn’t get to the crux of the issue,” said Rep. Munson. “That includes increasing funding to reduce class sizes, raising teacher and support staff pay, and adding more counselors.”

She added that more work remains to be done in future sessions.

Bills Left Behind

The Democratic leader also pointed to several proposals she says could have made an impact but didn’t advance, including expanding tax relief programs and increasing the minimum wage.

She also raised concerns about “dynamic pricing” in grocery stores—where electronic shelf labels and algorithms adjust prices in real time.

“That’s something that’s making things more expensive for everyday people,” said Rep. Munson. “It’s an issue we could have addressed.”

Notable Wins and Bipartisan Efforts

Despite frustrations, she highlighted several accomplishments, including approximately 40 bills passed by her caucus in the House, with several of them signed into law.

Among the key areas of progress:

“That was a strong bipartisan effort,” said Rep. Munson. “It doesn’t solve everything, but it’s a step in the right direction.”

The Importance of Bipartisanship

She emphasized that meaningful progress often comes when lawmakers work across party lines.

“When Democrats and Republicans work together, we actually solve problems,” said Rep. Munson.

She pointed to the 2023 elimination of the state sales tax on groceries as a successful example of bipartisan collaboration.

Message to Voters

As elections approach, she urged Oklahomans to stay engaged and informed.

“Know who your state representative and senator are,” said Rep. Munson. “Reach out, ask questions, and pay attention to how decisions at the Capitol affect your daily life.”

She also emphasized that civic engagement is a “two-way relationship” between voters and elected officials.

Looking Ahead—and Looking Back

Reflecting on her time in office, she said building relationships has been one of the most important lessons of her career.

“It’s easy to stay divided in politics, but we have to remember we’re all human,” said Rep. Munson. “That’s how real change happens.”

She also highlighted legislation she’s most proud of, including efforts to compensate wrongfully convicted individuals and hold insurance companies accountable for patient care decisions.

Transition in Leadership

As she prepares to step away, she expressed confidence in Representative Melissa Provenzano, who will take over leadership of the House Democratic Caucus.

“She’s fully equipped and ready,” said Rep. Munson. “She’s a strong leader who’s going to do a great job.”

Final Thoughts

While her time in the legislature is coming to an end, she says the work is far from over.

“It’s been an honor to serve my district and the state of Oklahoma,” said Rep. Munson. “The work never stops.”

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