2015: Denney Looking Forward To Challenges As Pro Tem
Cushing veterinarian will preside over House action when lawmakers return in February
By BARBARA HOBEROCK World Capitol Bureau
OKLAHOMA CITY — A veterinarian from Cushing will serve as second-in-command when House members return for the legislative session that begins in February.
Republican Rep. Lee Denney was recently tapped as speaker pro tem-elect. She will be in the chair at the front of the chamber presiding when House Speaker Jeff Hickman, R-Fairview, has other duties, which is a considerable amount of time.
It can be an arduous job, with late nights, long debates and passionate opinions among the 101 House members.
“The (House chamber) floor is someplace to be impartial,” Denney said. “Every member was elected by a constituency. They have a right to be heard on the floor and be treated with respect and have their opinions valued and listened to.”