In a nod to political favor from Oklahoma's hospitality industry, Reps. Steve Bashore, R-Miami, and Scott Fetgatter, R-Okmulgee, were named Legislators of the Year by the Oklahoma Restaurant Association (ORA). Awarded at the Oklahoma City Convention Center during the ORA’s annual expo, the recognition highlights their contributions to the business sector, focusing on a pro-business and pro-economy legislative push. According to a statement obtained by the Oklahoma House of Representatives, Bashore said, "It's wonderful to be recognized for legislation I've authored and supported that is pro-business, pro-economy and lower taxes for individuals and businesses."
Serving as Majority Deputy Floor Leader in the House, Bashore brought his experience as a general manager of a casino and resort to the legislative process, having been previously credited with turning around the Oklahoma Boxing Commission. With a history of generating significant economic gains, his policies reflect an understanding of what drives local business growth. Meanwhile, engaged in the construction business before taking office in 2016, Fetgatter's work has sought to foster a beneficial environment for food service and other entertainment sectors. "I've worked hard as a legislator to make sure food service and other entertainment and hospitality industries thrive in Oklahoma," Fetgatter told the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
The Oklahoma Restaurant Association, which also looks after the state's Hotel & Lodging and Travel Industry Associations, showcases the vital role of hospitality. Representing the state's third-largest industry, these groups underscore the economic influence of food service, lodging, and tourism that fuel job creation and boost personal income. Statistics released by the ORA suggest a multiplier effect, with every dollar spent in the sector generating an additional $1.60-1.79 in sales for the Oklahoma economy, as per the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
Bashore and Fetgatter, both Republicans, have carved out reputations as champions of economic development opportunities. Their legislative efforts, backed by personal industry engagements, equip them with insights that appear to resonate with the ORA's mission. Bashore's work in the hospitality and gaming industry and Fetgatter's varied experience in construction, technology sales, and grocery business serve as a bedrock for their policy-making. Vibrant in their advocacy, these legislators seek to ensure that Oklahoma's business-friendly climate is not just maintained but thrives under their watch. "These business owners contribute not just to our job market and our economy, but they enhance our overall quality of life," Fetgatter added, underscoring the broader societal implications of their legislative achievements, as stated by the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
