'Astronomical symbol' debate takes Oklahoma House where it's frequently gone before

Designating a distant nebula as the state astronomical symbol might not seem like a big deal — which was exactly the point that unexpectedly set off fireworks in the Oklahoma House of Representatives on Tuesday.

The contretemps briefly recalled the bitter partisan battles of recent years, and was further evidence that the Republican majority intends to keep the Democratic minority on a shortened leash.

House Bill 1292, by Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, recognizes the Rosette Nebula, reportedly a favorite of the Oklahoma Astronomy Club, as one of numerous state symbols. Such bills are usually more the subject of good-natured banter than serious discussion, and that was the case with this one until Rep. Shane Stone, D-Oklahoma City, got the microphone.

After asking several questions that only he seemed to take seriously, Stone stood up to debate against the bill on the grounds that it was not the best use of the House’s time.

Read more: https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/local/government-and-politics/astronomical-symbol-debate-takes-oklahoma-house-where-it-s-frequently/article_a460b33e-4452-5eb2-bf38-b1f52f142415.html


The Rosette Nebula is pictured here in a composite image from the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Courtesy NASA