WHEREAS, Senator Frank Simpson has a true servant's heart, dedicating his life in service to his country, state, district, and Lord, Jesus Christ; and

WHEREAS, Senator Simpson is completing his 12th year of Senate service to the citizens of Senate District 14; and

WHEREAS, first elected in 2010, Senator Simpson has served in numerous leadership positions including Assistant Majority Floor Leader, Majority Whip, Chair of the Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, and Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services; and

WHEREAS, besides his standing committees, Senator Simpson's expertise has been sought in many other areas. After his family was forever changed by diabetes, he helped grow the Legislative Diabetes Caucus, serving as chair and vice chair for many years. He was also a member of the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency Oversight Committee; the Senate Redistricting Committee; the Veterans Caucus, which he chaired; and the Mental Health Caucus; and

WHEREAS, the 26–year retired U.S. Navy veteran has been a tireless advocate for Oklahoma's military members, veterans, and their families, with legislation designating Oklahoma as a Purple Heart State; improving services and care in Oklahoma's veterans centers; creating community-based homes for aging and terminally ill veterans; and ensuring proper burial of veterans. He also championed measures to streamline military student transfers; make college more affordable for Oklahoma's heroes; promote equitable access to state and federal benefits and services for female veterans; protect National Guard members from employment discrimination; and extend state benefits to peacetime veterans; and

WHEREAS, Senator Simpson also expanded the Trafficking in Illegal Drugs Act; improved diabetes awareness and education statewide as well as made insulin and other resources more affordable; and protected the leave of state employees following state emergencies; and

WHEREAS, while he had many accomplishments and made friendships that will last a lifetime, his greatest blessing was meeting his best friend, Karen, whom he married on May 22, 2021. Upon his retirement, they are looking forward to continuing their worldwide travels and spending more time with their beloved family; and

WHEREAS, State Question No. 632, adopted September 18, 1990, and effective January 1, 1991, limits the length of service for a member of the Legislature to a total of twelve years. As a result, Senator Simpson will not be eligible to stand for reelection this year; and

WHEREAS, Senator Simpson has proudly and diligently represented the voices of Carter, Johnston, Love, and Murray Counties, and his wisdom and calm nature will be greatly missed at the Oklahoma Capitol and within the esteemed Senate.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE 2ND SESSION OF THE 58TH OKLAHOMA LEGISLATURE:

THAT the Oklahoma State Senate, on behalf of the citizens of Senate District 14 and this great state, expresses its gratitude to Senator Frank Simpson for his service in the Oklahoma State Senate.

THAT a copy of this resolution be distributed to Senator Frank Simpson.