Anna Pope (OSU)
Different songs written by artists like Beyoncé and Shakira played in between bills in the House of Representatives’ virtual session today. Author of the freshman bill OSU-521 Rep. Abbi Lesnick said she felt nervous but excited presenting the bill to the chamber.
Lesnick, who is joining session from her house in Iowa, did not expect for her bill to pass committee, yet alone be chosen as this session’s freshman bill. Lesnick said she is taking advantage of every minute in Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature (OIL).
“I’m really enjoying being in the house,” Lesnick said. “There’s so much going on and so many opportunities to learn.”
Formerly a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Major, Lesnick is sophomore at Oklahoma State University (OSU) studying Global Studies Pre-Law with a minor in social justice. Lesnick said she switched majors due to her long-standing passion for politics.
As a People to People Student Ambassador, an organization dedicated to allowing students to immerse themselves in the customs of other cultures. Lesnick’s interest in politics grew from traveling to other countries like Australia, France, Switzerland, Germany and Italy.
Once she got to OSU Lesdick said she met Rep. Riley Pritzlaff who introduced her to OIL. While her experience as a delegate in the OSU delegation is fun, she joined with the intention of learning how the lawmaking process takes place.
“I think my favorite part about OIL has been learning about the bill writing process,” Lesnick said. “And I think that’s probably one of biggest takeaways, is just how intense the legislative process is in both a state and federal government.”
Lesnick’s bill would have outlawed non-medical related convience euthanasia for domestic animals, but it did not pass the House of Representatives. However, Lesnick said in her delegation meeting she gained more confidence to speak up during session from introducing her bill.