Okla. Official Questions Hiring Pregnant Woman

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A member of Oklahoma's Board of Education is drawing heated reaction after saying a newly hired administrator would be "worthless" as a legislative liaison if she takes immediate maternity leave.

The board voted Thursday to hire Jessica Russell, who is due to give birth in April. Former state Sen. Herb Rozell then questioned whether Russell would be around for key days of the legislative session, saying she would be "worthless to us" if she immediately takes six weeks off.

Russell left the meeting in tears.

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin called Rozell's remark "disgusting" and two state senators called for his resignation.

Rozell later said his words came out wrong. He said he simply hoped Russell would be available to work in April and May, as lawmakers wrap up their work.