First term State Senator James Leewright has been appointed to chair the Senate Business, Commerce and Tourism Committee. Senate Pro Tempore Mike Schulz announced he tapped the Bristow Republican for the position last week.
It is believed Leewright, who was elected to the Senate in 2016, may be the first Senator in state history to be appointed to independently chair a standing Senate committee as a freshman member. Before his election to the Senate last year, he also served in the House of Representatives for two years, during which he was named Assistant Whip and served as Vice Chair for Banking and Financial Services.
Leewright owns Dynamic Restoration in Sapulpa and brings 25 years of experience to his new chairmanship role of the Business, Commerce and Tourism committee. He says he is aware of the unique challenges businesses face as they strive to grow and prosper and because of that, he has always sought ways to ensure no undue burdens are placed on Oklahoma businesses that generate jobs, stimulate economic growth and create a broader tax base.
“I am honored to be chosen to chair the Business, Commerce, and Tourism Committee,” said Leewright. “As a business owner myself, this is a great opportunity to serve in a capacity where I have extensive real life experience and perspective. I look forward to this responsibility and am ready to get started.”
Leewright represents Creek and parts of Tulsa Counties.