Jim Barker (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jim L. Barker
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| Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives | |
| In office September 19, 1983 – May 17, 1989 |
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| Preceded by | Daniel Draper |
| Succeeded by | Steve Lewis |
| Member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives from the 13th district |
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| In office January 1977 – January 1991 |
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| Preceded by | Drew Edmondson |
| Succeeded by | Bill Settle |
| In office January 1969 – January 1971 |
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| Preceded by | Mike Frix |
| Succeeded by | Jan Eric Cartwright |
| Personal details | |
| Born | June 20, 1935 Muskogee, Oklahoma |
| Died | April 25, 2005 (aged 69) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Kay |
| Alma mater | Northeastern Oklahoma State University |
| Occupation | Businessman |
Jim L. Barker (born June 20, 1935 – died April 25, 2005) was an important politician from Oklahoma. He was the only state representative to be chosen four times as the Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives. This means he was the leader of the state's main law-making group.
During his time as Speaker, Jim Barker helped create several new laws. Some of these laws became examples for other states to follow. He also helped Oklahoma deal with money problems the state was facing.
He helped set up the "Rainy Day Fund," which is money saved for emergencies. He also worked on the Victims Bill of Rights, which helps people who have been victims of crimes. He supported safe homes for women and children and helped get more money for the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Jim Barker passed away on April 25, 2005, in Oklahoma City. Even though he had not been a lawmaker for many years, both the House of Representatives and the Senate stopped their work to honor him at his funeral.
Early Life and Education
Jim L. Barker was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, on June 20, 1935. He went to high school and junior college at the Oklahoma Military Academy. After that, he earned a degree in business from Northeastern Oklahoma State University in 1957.
His parents were Fred and Pearl Barker. Jim Barker served as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Later, he returned to Oklahoma and started his own business, Muskogee Restaurant Supply. He was married to Kay Tucker.
Political Career Highlights
Jim Barker was first elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 1969. He served for one term, then returned to serve again from 1977 to 1990.
He became Speaker of the House in 1983. At that time, Oklahoma was facing money troubles. The state's economy was struggling because of changes in the oil and farming industries. As Speaker, Jim Barker worked to solve these problems. He found new ways for the state to earn money and made some changes to taxes.
Jim Barker wrote many important laws that became models for other states. One of his big achievements was creating the Victim Bill of Rights, which included five different laws to help crime victims. He also helped create Oklahoma's "Rainy Day Fund." This fund sets aside money for the state to use during emergencies or tough times.
On May 17, 1989, Jim Barker left his role as Speaker. This happened because of disagreements among politicians.
Later Life and Legacy
After his time as a state representative ended, Jim Barker moved to Edmond, Oklahoma. He started his own business called Jim Barker Consulting Company. He continued to work as a consultant, helping different groups with legislative matters.
Jim Barker passed away on April 25, 2005. He died from health issues after attending church services. Even after he left office, his work continued to influence Oklahoma.
See also
- 40th Oklahoma Legislature
- 41st Oklahoma Legislature
- 42nd Oklahoma Legislature
- 43rd Oklahoma Legislature
