(D-Poteau) as their 2004 Legislator of the Year for his support of
Oklahoma's state troopers.
The Democrat from Poteau, who also represents residents in the south half of
Sequoyah County, received the award primarily for his leadership and
dedication to legislation that provides a pay increase to state troopers and
compresses a 14-year plan into seven years. Corn was the principal author of
SB 1137 that was signed by Gov. Brad Henry in May.
"I am honored to have been chosen for this prestigious award," Corn said
last week. "Oklahoma's state troopers provide an invaluable service to our
citizens and I am extremely pleased to receive the Legislator of the Year
Award from a group of men and women who put their lives on the line day in
and day out."
SB 1137 will raise the starting salaries from $24,348 to $30,000 and will
increase annual salaries of troopers with one year of experience from
$27,000 to $36,711. The time has also been decreased for a trooper to reach
the top pay level from 14 to seven years.
Trooper Roy Rogers said Corn's efforts during the legislative session to
ensure this measure passed has tremendously impacted the recruiting efforts
of the Department of Public Safety.
"Cadets now have a competitive salary to those in larger metropolitan areas
and this measure now offers an increased benefit to make the recruiting
efforts more appealing to the men and women interested in law enforcement,"
Rogers said.
Corn was presented with the award at a dinner held in his honor in Poteau.
Several local state troopers attended to relay their thanks to the legislator.
"Oklahoma's Highway Patrol troopers are now provided with a much-needed
financial enhancement and I am honored to have been part of the process. I
commend those men and women who work so diligently to protect our state,"
Corn said.
This award marks the fifth time this year that Corn has been recognized for
his legislative work. Others include the Career Tech Association, American
Heart Association, Community Action and the Oklahoma Firefighter's
Association.
