Tulsa Standard

Representative Kevin Hern of Oklahoma has introduced H.R. 10167, a bill to name the new Tulsa VA Medical Center after the late Senator Jim Inhofe. This legislation is a companion to a Senate bill that passed unanimously. The proposed name for the 275,000-square-foot, 58-bed medical-surgical hospital is the James Mountain Inhofe VA Medical Center.

"Senator James Mountain Inhofe was a towering figure who put his country and state above himself," said Rep. Kevin Hern. "He was not only a lifelong public servant to Oklahoma, but also a dear friend. Senator Inhofe championed our military, veterans, and their families with unwavering dedication."

Rep. Tom Cole expressed similar sentiments: "Senator Jim Inhofe was a true patriot. He spent decades serving our great nation and state of Oklahoma in the United States Army, Oklahoma state legislature, United States House of Representatives, United States Senate, and as the Mayor of Tulsa." He added that he is honored to have introduced this legislation along with the rest of the Oklahoma delegation in the House.

Rep. Frank Lucas noted Senator Inhofe's long career in both houses of Congress: "From being a larger-than-life advocate for Oklahoma’s military installations to improving infrastructure across the state, he made an impact on Oklahomans that will be felt for generations."

"There are very few Oklahomans who dedicated more to our military bases and veterans than James Inhofe," said Rep. Stephanie Bice. She highlighted his integrity and leadership as key aspects of his legacy.

Rep. Josh Brecheen emphasized Senator Inhofe's commitment to public service: "This legislation stands as a testament to his lifelong service."

The bill has co-sponsors including Representatives Tom Cole (OK-04), Frank Lucas (OK-03), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), and Josh Brecheen (OK-02). Senators James Lankford and Markwayne Mullin led the Senate version.