Resolution; proclaiming April 22, 2026, as the 27th Annual Oklahoma 4-H Day at the Capitol.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Roland Pederson

Proclaims April 22, 2026 as Oklahoma 4-H Day at the Capitol to honor 4-H youth, volunteers, and contributions, with no new policy or funding.

Enrolled, filed with Secretary of State

1. Purpose and Intent

The resolution designates April 22, 2026, as the 27th Annual Oklahoma 4-H Day at the Capitol.

It recognizes the ongoing impact of Oklahoma 4-H on youth development, civic engagement, and community betterment, and highlights the state’s appreciation for 4-H participants, volunteers, and supporters.

2. Key Provisions and Changes

Formal proclamation by the Oklahoma State Senate that:

April 22, 2026, is observed as Oklahoma 4-H Day at the Capitol.
The day honors 4-H members, volunteers, and supporters for their contributions to communities and the state.
Reaffirms the motto “We Are Oklahoma 4-H.”

No substantive policy changes or funding appropriations are included in the text. The effect is ceremonial and symbolic, serving to elevate awareness of 4-H programs and their impact.

3. Who or What is Affected

Affected Parties:

Oklahoma 4-H youth participants (ages 5 to 19) and programs delivered through Oklahoma State University Extension and Langston University Extension.
4-H volunteers, mentors, and adult leaders (noting more than 1,300 volunteer leaders mentioned).
State leaders and the general public who observe or participate in 4-H Day at the Capitol.

Geographic/Institutional Reach:

State of Oklahoma, statewide 4-H programs, and participating youth and volunteers.

4. Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Legislative Action:

Enrolled Senate Resolution No. 41 (SR 41) authored by Senator Pederson.
Passed by the Oklahoma Senate and enrolled for transmission to the Secretary of State.
Effective on adoption: the Senate adopted the resolution on April 22, 2026; enrolled status dated April 23, 2026, with formal filing to the Secretary of State.

Observance:

The resolution serves as a formal proclamation to recognize the day; it does not mandate statewide events beyond the ceremonial designation.

Related Context:

The resolution notes historical context: 4-H has operated in Oklahoma for nearly 120 years and reaches more than 180,000 participants annually through various programming areas (STEM, healthy living, agriculture, horticulture, robotics, etc.).
Emphasizes the “learn-by-doing” philosophy and the valuable contributions of volunteers and youth alike.

5. Notable Details

Emphasizes the breadth of 4-H programming beyond agriculture, including food/nutrition, photography, robotics, and community development.

Highlights quantifiable elements: more than 100,000 annual volunteer hours contributed statewide, and over 1,300 adult volunteer leaders.

Affirms the positive outcomes associated with 4-H participation, including leadership, decision-making, time management, and civic engagement.

This summary presents SR 41 as a ceremonial proclamation recognizing Oklahoma 4-H Day at the Capitol and its supporters, without creating new statutory requirements or fiscal obligations.

Bill