Republican state Rep. Leslie Osborn says she'll run for Oklahoma labor commissioner next year.
Elected in 2008, Osborn is the former chairman of the powerful House Appropriations and Budget Committee. She was replaced last month by Republican House Speaker Charles McCall amid a disagreement over cuts to services administered by the state Department of Human Services.
A resident of Mustang, Osborn said Wednesday she'll work with businesses and workers to create safe workplaces and strong companies. The Labor Commission is responsible for overseeing many industries and providing safety training and regulations.
Cathy Costello, widow of slain Labor Commissioner Mark Costello, also plans to seek her late husband's former office. Attorney Melissa Houston was appointed to the post after Costello's August 2015 death but says she won't seek a full term.