Priorities
Since entering the Senate, Julia has earned the respect of those on both sides of the aisle. First elected in 2018, she has concentrated her legislative efforts on public education, mental health, a fair budget and prioritizing Oklahomans left behind. Learning at every opportunity, she asks the hard questions that need to be asked and carefully considers the consequences of every decision.
Julia has become one of the most well known budget watchdogs in the legislature, working to ensure responsible state investments and fair fiscal policies. She serves on the Appropriations Committee, Health and Human Services Subcommittee for Appropriations, Finance Committee and the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency Oversight Committee.
Dedicating herself to speaking up for Oklahomans being left behind, she serves as co-chair of the Waiting List Caucus to ensure individuals with developmental disabilities receive the services they deserve to thrive and their families receive the help they need. The Arc of Oklahoma awarded Julia the 2020 Elected Official Advocate of the Year award for promoting better understanding and integration of people with disabilities in employment, education, and the community.
Julia helped start the Legislative Mental Health Caucus, a bi-partisan group of leaders working to make sure Oklahomans facing mental health challenges or substance use disorder can receive treatment and our state invests more in prevention. Mental Health America named her a 2021 Legislative Champion for her work.