Gov. Stitt considering new special session on tax cuts

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt mulling new special session on tax cuts

by Carmen Forman, Oklahoma Voice

December 22, 2023

OKLAHOMA CITY — Gov. Kevin Stitt said Friday he is considering calling lawmakers into another special session on tax cuts early next year.

Stitt said he’d like to see lawmakers approve a 0.25% personal income tax cut before the regular, four-month legislative session begins Feb. 5.

“I’d love to get a tax cut done before we go back into session so it’s not all jumbled up with all the other policy things,” Stitt told reporters.

He said he planned to talk to House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, and Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, about the idea.

The governor made the comments after the state Board of Equalization, which he leads, certified budget projections for the upcoming fiscal year.

According to the projections, lawmakers could spend up to $13.9 billion next year, or about $1 billion more than the $12.9 billion budget they approved this year.

The figures presented Friday serve as a starting point for Stitt to build a budget proposal he will present to lawmakers Feb. 5. Lawmakers will begin crafting the spending plan for the upcoming fiscal year once the Board of Equalization meets again in February to certify updated budget projections.

Touting projections showing the state could have about $458 million more in recurring revenue to spend next year, Stitt said he’s feeling “great” about the possibility of a tax cut.

A 0.25% personal income tax cut would cost about $250 million annually once fully implemented, he said.

Senate Appropriations Chairman Roger Thompson, R-Okemah, said he expects lawmakers will only have about $300 million or less in new recurring revenue to spend next year.

It’s too soon to talk about cutting taxes, he added. Lawmakers need to dig into the budget figures presented Friday to get a better idea of how much extra cash the state will have, Thompson said.

“We need to solidify what the numbers are before we talk about going into a special session,” he said.

Stitt also urged lawmakers to pass a 0.25% personal income tax cut in an October special session.

Although the House was prepared to act on the governor’s request, the Senate abruptly adjourned the special session after Stitt refused to appear before a legislative panel to answer questions about his proposed tax cuts.

Oklahoma Voice is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oklahoma Voice maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Janelle Stecklein for questions: info@oklahomavoice.com. Follow Oklahoma Voice on Facebook and Twitter.

Rep. McBride thanks State Supt. Walters for subpoena response

Chairman McBride Acknowledges Walters' Subpoena Response

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 26th) – Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, today released a statement acknowledging State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters' compliance with a recently issued subpoena. The subpoena required delivery of records and communications requested by the House Appropriations and Budget Education Subcommittee, which McBride chairs. 

Small: OSU president in denial over DEI

OSU president in denial

By Jonathan Small

Gov. Kevin Stitt took an important step when he recently issued an executive order targeting so-called “diversity, equity and inclusion” (DEI) positions at Oklahoma colleges by banning the use of state taxpayer funds for DEI to the extent those bureaucrats and programs treat people differently based on race.

One prominent college leader responded with denial – or, in the most charitable interpretation, self-delusion.

Merry Christmas!

Have a very merry Christmas!

The account of the birth of Jesus Christ, from Luke 2:

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

I hope that you have a very happy and safe holiday! 

Before the year runs out, you should do the 'good person' test:

Here's the deal. God made you. God made everything. Just as the electronic device you are reading this on had a designer, the building you are in had an architect, the vehicle you drive had a manufacturer, this entire universe - infinitely more complex - had a Creator. He orchestrated the atoms and molecules that make up everything.

As Creator, He has the right and prerogative for placing laws and rules for His creation to follow. You, and I, and every human being, have fallen short of those laws. We may think we're good, or that we're better than others, but that's a flawed assessment.

The Ten Commandments sum up God's Law. We have all broken every single one. We have lied. We have stolen. We have had inappropriate sexual thoughts (Jesus called this adultery of the heart). We have been angry without just cause (Jesus called this murder of the heart). We have coveted. We have blasphemed. We are all guilty.

"But judge, I'm not as bad as that other criminal!" doesn't fly in the earthly courtroom, nor the eternal courtroom.

Punishment for offenses increase as the party against which the crime was perpetrated increase in stature. Disobedience to parents require one level of correction/punishment. Crimes against a human government require a higher degree of punishment. Crimes against an infinite God require a greater punishment, namely an infinite punishment. 

Heaven is real, but so is Hell. Hell is a real place, where the full righteous wrath of God Almighty is unendingly poured out on those who rebelled against the most loving and gracious Being in the Universe. You have sinned against God and earned for yourself Hell. I sinned against God and earned for myself Hell.

But, Jesus Christ, the second Person of the Trinity, God in flesh, came to earth and fulfilled God's Law on our behalf and paid our punishment with His sacrificial death, wiping away our sin-debt, our criminal fine, and giving us His righteousness. 

We must, by faith, believe and repent. Believe that Jesus is who He said He was, that He died for us and rose again, and repent - turn away from our sin in disgust that we would offend God in such ways, and dedicate our lives to following Him, not in order to earn salvation but in recognition that we cannot save ourselves and in response and gratefulness to the kindness shown to us by God in providing a way of forgiveness.

This salvation is a free (and permanent, ever-lasting) gift of God, and is fully of Him. We contribute nothing to it except the sin that made it necessary. We can do nothing to earn it or maintain it. No amount of good deeds or prayers or pilgrimages or sacraments is sufficient -- only Christ is.

I cannot convince you of the Gospel. Only God can. My responsibility is to share it with you. 

You must determine whether you will believe it to be true or not.

But know this: if all this is true, you will one day stand before your Maker and be held to account for the works you did and did not do during your life. And, you will be held to account for how you respond(ed) to the free offer of the Gospel that was presented to you, for better or for worse. 

 

Life is short, and Man is not guaranteed tomorrow. Eternity is forever. God offers salvation freely to those who will believe. Receive it while you have opportunity to do so and do not tarry.

Speaker McCall files income tax cut bills ahead of 2024 session

Speaker McCall Files Tax Cut Legislation Ahead of Session

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 21st) – Oklahoma House Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, has filed multiple pieces of legislation regarding personal income tax cuts ahead of the upcoming session of the Oklahoma Legislature. The bills are the latest in a series of tax cut plans that the House has filed and passed throughout the last three years.

Brecheen's freshman year legislative highlights

2023 Wrapped: Congressman Brecheen’s Legislative Work Highlights

 

Washington, D.C. (Dec. 20th) – As we reach the conclusion of Congressman Brecheen’s first year in office, here are some of the top legislative highlights of the year in case you might have missed it. 

Stitt forms 'One Oklahoma Task Force' to confront continued impact of McGirt

GOVERNOR STITT FORMS ONE OKLAHOMA TASK FORCE TO CONFRONT THE CONTINUED IMPACT OF MCGIRT

 

OKLAHOMA CITY (December 22, 2023) - Today, Governor Stitt signed Executive Order 2023-32, creating the One Oklahoma Task Force to provide the Governor, Legislature, Tribal leaders, and congressional delegation with legislative and regulatory recommendations as we continue to feel the impacts of the McGirt decision.

OCPA president calls on Kayse Shrum to honor OSU’s ‘historic values’

OCPA president calls on Kayse Shrum to honor OSU’s ‘historic values’

OKLAHOMA CITY (December 18, 2023)—Recent events have demonstrated to Americans the extent of the rot in higher education, especially in elite institutions. But the problems are here at home, too—including at Oklahoma State University—and it’s time for policymakers to act, OCPA president Jonathan Small said today.

“I applaud Gov. Kevin Stitt for his executive order seeking to reduce the influence of poisonous ‘diversity, equity, and inclusion’ (DEI) ideologies in Oklahoma colleges,” Small said. “Unfortunately, OSU president Kayse Shrum’s dismissive response to the executive order—‘an initial review indicates that no significant changes to our processes or practices are needed’—shows that she’s hopelessly out of step with the Oklahomans paying the freight.” 

OK Dems open '24 primary to Independents; GOP and Libertarians keep closed primaries

Independents Eligible to Vote in 2024 Democratic Primary Elections

(Oklahoma City, Dec. 18th) – State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax announced today that he has been notified by the Oklahoma Democratic Party that it will allow Independents to vote in its primaries and runoff primaries during the 2024-2025 election years. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma Republican Party notified the Secretary that it will keep its primaries closed to Independent voters. The Libertarian Party did not formally send a notification; therefore, by default, the Libertarian Party primaries will remain closed as designated by state law. More information about political parties is available on the State Election Board website.

Workhorse for his constituents: Congressman Brecheen's first year in office by the numbers

He's a workhorse, for sure! Honestly, I don't recall any other member of Congress putting this sort of constituent engagement in like Brecheen has.

2023 Wrapped: Congressman Brecheen and His Team Ensure Oklahoma Constituents’ Voices are Heard Within “The People’s House”

Washington, D.C. (December 18th) – As we reach the conclusion of Congressman Josh Brecheen’s first year in office, here are some of the top highlights of the year from our constituent engagement within Oklahoma’s 2nd Congressional District, in case you might have missed it.

By the Numbers:

Attorney General's Open Meetings, Open Records seminars see record turnout

Open Meetings, Open Records seminars see record turnout 

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 14, 2023) - More than 900 Oklahomans attended a series of Open Meetings and Open Records seminars presented this fall by the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office and the Oklahoma Press Association in different regions of the state. 

OKGOP congratulates Logan County GOP on historic precinct organization

As a former county party vice-chair, I can attest that this is quite the grassroots accomplishment:

Oklahoma Republican Party issues statement on Logan County GOP

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 18th) – Today, Nathan Dahm, Oklahoma Republican Party Chairman, announced a significant achievement for the Oklahoma Republican Party.   Logan County has 100% representation in every one of its thirty precincts, which records show, has never occurred in Oklahoma. 

State House schedules annual agency budget request hearings, available for public observation

House Schedules Annual Agency Budget Request Hearings

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 18th) – The Oklahoma House of Representatives is continuing its standard practice and tradition of fiscal transparency this year with upcoming agency performance reviews and budget request hearings.

Each year, House Appropriation & Budget subcommittees hold hearings prior to the legislative session in which state agencies, boards or commissions that receive state funding come before the appropriate committee to present reports on prior year spending and to detail their budget requests for the next fiscal year. House members of each subcommittee are encouraged to ask detailed questions of the agencies as they will be charged with negotiating state appropriations for each entity during the annual budget process.

Brecheen files bill to combat proposed Biden energy regulation that would harm ceiling fan manufacturers

Image by Eak K. from Pixabay

Congressman Josh Brecheen Introduces Small Business Ceiling Fan Manufacturer Protection Act

Washington, D.C. (Dec. 14th) – Congressman Josh Brecheen introduced the Small Business Ceiling Fan Manufacturer Protection Act, which would combat a damaging proposed rule from the Department of Energy (DOE) that could place certain ceiling fan manufacturers out of business.

“Biden’s Department of Energy should be focused on ensuring American energy independence, instead of pursuing a radical, green agenda that will crush small businesses,” said Congressman Josh Brecheen. “This bill is needed to ensure that DoE cannot act any further on this proposed rule.”

Breitbart’s Bradley Jaye wrote an exclusive report on the bill, which you can read here.

Background:

On June 22, 2023 the Department of Energy announced a proposed rule that would amend energy conservation standards for ceiling fans.

Specifically, this proposed rule would decrease the maximum energy consumption permissible for large diameter and belt-driven ceiling fans, thus raising costs by as much as $4.8 million on small businesses. This increase in costs will inevitably be passed on to American families.

It would require ceiling fan manufacturers to completely redesign their products to remain in compliance with this regulation. DOE predicts that for some small businesses, compliance with this rule would cost more than its yearly revenues.

State Sen. Pugh files VET Act to recruit military retirees to classrooms

Pugh files VET Act to recruit military retirees to classrooms

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 15th) – Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, has filed legislation to attract military retirees from around the country to Oklahoma’s classrooms. Senate Bill 1311 would create the Veterans Entering Teaching (VET) Act and pay for veterans’ schooling to become educators if they agreed to teach in the state for three consecutive years.

Gov. Stitt appoints Annie Vest as Director of OK Emergency Management

GOVERNOR STITT SELECTS EXPERT DISASTER MITIGATOR AS DIRECTOR OF OKLAHOMA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

OKLAHOMA CITY (December 15, 2023) - Today, Governor Kevin Stitt announced his appointment of Annie Mack Vest to serve as the Director of Oklahoma Emergency Management.

"Annie is an impressive industry leader for disaster mitigation and community preparedness," said Governor Stitt. "With over a decade of experience at the state and federal levels, Annie brings the right temperament and skill set to lead Oklahoma in emergency preparedness and response. I'm grateful for her willingness to serve, and I look forward to working alongside her to protect Oklahomans."

Small: Free speech double standard at colleges

Free speech double standard at colleges

By Jonathan Small

The leaders of three major universities recently became free-speech absolutists – when it comes to defending anti-Semitic calls for genocide at student rallies. But if you “misgender” a man wearing women’s clothes, look out.

The ever-shifting standards of college presidents when it comes to free-speech protections is one reason U.S. citizens have an increasingly negative view of a college education. A July poll by Gallup found that just 36% of Americans have confidence in higher education with only 17% expressing a “great deal” of confidence, and a March poll by The Wall Street Journal found 56% of American say the cost of a four-year degree is not worth it.

Congressman Brecheen looks back on first year in Congress, what to expect in 2024

Looking Back on First Year Experience in Congress and What to Expect in 2024

by Congressman Josh Brecheen (R, OK-02)
First published in The McCarville Report
December 15th, 2023

I wanted to take some time to reflect on what was a productive, and at times, challenging year and give a preview of what constituents can expect for the year ahead.

State Sen. Daniels, State Rep. Lepak file resolution in support of Israel

Sen. Daniels, Rep. Lepak file resolution in support of Israel

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 14th) – Sen. Julie Daniels, R-Bartlesville, and Rep. Mark Lepak, R-Claremore, have filed a resolution to affirm support of Israel and to condemn Hamas. The resolution can be considered by the Oklahoma Legislature when it convenes in February. The resolution expresses an unwavering commitment to the welfare, security and survival of the State of Israel.  It also calls on state law enforcement agencies to be vigilant in protecting Israeli Americans from crime and discrimination and calls on the federal government to aid Israel in its defense against Hamas and all other terrorist organizations.

“Even though we cannot adopt this resolution until February, we think it important in this season of Hanukkah to let our fellow Oklahomans of the Jewish faith and Israeli citizens in our state know that we stand with them in support of the Nation State of Israel and the Jewish people,” Daniels said.

Lepak added, "Hamas is a terrorist organization, and what they did on October 7 is undeniably evil.  Israel has the right, and should, rid itself of that threat. There is no equivocating on this point."

Congressman Brecheen votes against "compromise" status-quo NDAA

Congressman Josh Brecheen Votes Against So-Called “Compromise” NDAA

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Brecheen voted against the so-called “compromise” National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which maintains taxpayer funded abortion travel, taxpayer funded transgender surgeries, and radical climate alarmism, which contributes to the current military recruitment crisis. It also continues the unconstitutional FISA 702 program, which has led to the warrantless surveillance of Americans, and even includes $600 million for Ukraine.

State Rep. Banning applauds Walters for dropping woke American Library Association guidelines

Banning Applauds Superintendent for Dropping ALA Guidelines

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, released a statement applauding State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters for working to eliminate all references to American Library Association guidelines in Oklahoma's Information Literacy Standards and proposing new standards that are aligned with Oklahoma values.

Senate Dems elect next leaders for 2025-2026 session

The minivan caucus (aka the eight Democrats in the Oklahoma State Senate) has anointed their presumptive leaders for the 2025-2026 legislative session:

Senate Democratic Leader Floyd announces caucus election of Sen. Kirt as next leader; Sen. Brooks elected as caucus chair

 OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd announced Wednesday her caucus has elected Sen. Julia Kirt to follow Floyd into that leadership role for the 60th Oklahoma Legislature. Sen. Michael Brooks was chosen to succeed Sen. Kevin Matthews as Democratic caucus chair. Due to term limits, the 59th Oklahoma Legislature will be the last for both Floyd and Matthews, who will continue to serve in their Senate leadership roles until they leave office in November of 2024.

Sen. Standridge files legislation to stop harmful DEI practices in Oklahoma universities and colleges

In related news, Gov. Stitt made moves yesterday to likewise attack DEI programs.

Sen. Standridge files legislation to stop harmful DEI practices in Oklahoma universities and colleges

OKLAHOMA CITY – In the wake of Senator Standridge’s Interim Study on October 18, looking at DEI practices in our universities and colleges, Standridge has filed four pieces of legislation to adopt laws that will stop this discriminatory process. At the study, Standridge (R-Norman) hosted guests from the Heritage Foundation, Goldwater Institute, and OCPA, along with other experts that showed how DEI is destroying our institutions of higher learning and harming many college students and faculty along the way.

According to Sen. Standridge, DEI should be called by its more appropriate name, Discriminate, Exclude and Indoctrinate.

Dr. Randy Grellner announces run for Senate District 21

DR. RANDY GRELLNER ANNOUNCES RUN FOR OKLAHOMA STATE SENATE

“Our community deserves an honest and conservative leader.”

STILLWATER, OK (December 13, 2023) – Dr. Randy Grellner, a prominent physician from Cushing, has announced his candidacy for Oklahoma Senate District 21. Dr. Grellner is a constitutional conservative Republican campaigning to replace Sen. Tom Dugger who announced his retirement in September.

"Defund Discrimination": Gov. Stitt takes hatchet to taxpayer-funded DEI programs

Good for Gov. Stitt:

GOVERNOR STITT SIGNS ANTI-DISCRIMINATION EXECUTIVE ORDER, TAKES AIM AT DEI MEASURES

OKLAHOMA CITY (December 13, 2023) - Today, Governor Kevin Stitt signed Executive Order 2023-31, implementing greater protections for Oklahomans and their tax dollars against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

“In Oklahoma, we’re going to encourage equal opportunity, rather than promising equal outcomes,” said Governor Stitt. “Encouraging our workforce, economy, and education systems to flourish means shifting focus away from exclusivity and discrimination, and toward opportunity and merit. We’re taking politics out of education and focusing on preparing students for the workforce.”

Gov. Stitt appoints Tommy Humphries as District 4 District Attorney

GOVERNOR STITT APPOINTS TOMMY HUMPHRIES AS DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT ATTORNEY

OKLAHOMA CITY (December 12, 2023) - Today, Governor Kevin Stitt announced his appointment of Tommy Humphries to serve as district attorney for District 4, which encompasses Canadian, Garfield, Kingfisher, Blaine, and Grant Counties.

Walters troubled by Tulsa Public Schools actions

Walters Statement on Tulsa Public Schools

Oklahoma City, Okla (Dec. 12th) – State Superintendent Ryan Walters has issued the following statement regarding Tulsa Public Schools (TPS): 

“Despite months of assurances from TPS that it would take seriously the profoundly troubling issues in the district, the TPS board showed the exact opposite last night,” said Walters. “While I welcome a close partnership with Dr. Johnson moving forward, TPS is barreling toward drastic action being taken because the district has been unable to make the tough decisions necessary to turn the district around. The State Board of Education and I expect TPS to make decisions that prioritize student outcomes and not simply be a continued rubber stamp for the unions.”

GOP hold: Dusty Deevers wins SD32 special election

The voters in Oklahoma State Senate District 32 have spoken, and chosen Republican Dusty Deevers to fill the remainder of former Senator John Michael Montgomery's four-year term, which expires in 2026. Deevers received 3,104 votes (55.48%) to Democrat Larry Bush's 2,491 votes (44.52%).

A Baptist pastor from Elgin, Deevers is an unabashed conservative who has been very involved in efforts to abolish abortion not only in Oklahoma, but across the country. 

The last competitive election in this district was in 2018, when Republicans took the seat for first time since the 1930s, when John Michael Mongtomery received 55.14% over Democrat Jacobi Crowley's 44.86%.

Congressman Josh Brecheen announces Service Academy nominations

Congressman Josh Brecheen Announces Service Academy Nominations

Washington, D.C. (Dec. 4th) – Today, Congressman Josh Brecheen announced the following service academy nominations.

House Page Program now accepting applications

House Page Program Now Accepting Applications

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 4th) – The Oklahoma House of Representatives High School Page Program is now accepting applications for the Second Regular Session of the 59th Legislature, announced Program Director Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang.

Pro Tem Treat releases plans for new Senate budget process

Pro Tem Treat Releases Plans for New Senate Budget Process

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 4th) – Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, today released the Senate’s plan for more budget transparency and an estimated timeline for the Senate’s new budget proposal.

Small: Time for Oklahoma judicial selection overhaul

Time for Oklahoma judicial selection overhaul

By Jonathan Small

When Oklahomans cast their ballots, they expect the election results will have consequences. Winning candidates, having received majority support, are expected to then implement policies endorsed by voters.

In presidential elections, a candidate’s judicial philosophy matters to voters. The president has the power to select any qualified judicial nominee, subject to Senate approval for confirmation.

But that’s not how it works in Oklahoma. Instead, regardless of who Oklahomans elect governor, judicial nominees are selected by an outside group – the Oklahoma Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC).

Bergstrom files bills to create a pathway to zero income tax, enhance administrative rules oversight

Bergstrom files bill to create a pathway to zero income tax

OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 7th) - On Wednesday, Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, filed Senate Bill 1228, a measure that would outline a pathway to eliminate the Oklahoma state income tax. This significant proposal aims to alleviate the burden on hardworking Oklahomans and spur economic growth by fostering job creation within small businesses.

Oklahoma Ethics Commission announces new Executive Director

Ethics Commission Announces New Director

Welcoming the Next Ethics Commission Executive Director 

(December 7th) The Oklahoma Ethics Commission is excited to announce, introduce, and welcome its next Executive Director, Lee Anne Bruce Boone. She will be the 4th Executive Director to serve the Oklahoma Ethics Commission since its creation in 1990 following Directors Marilyn Hughes, Lee Slater, and Ashley Kemp.    

Gov. Stitt celebrates launch of OK Parental Choice Tax Credit

Gov. Stitt is celebrating  (after a brief 'optics' faux pas over whether he'd be applying for his kids) what appears to be a succesful launch of the Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit program, with what appears to be enough applicants in the first 90 minutes to use up the entire first-year allocation of $150M. Under the current law, the credit will increase to $200M in 2025, and $250M in 2026. I expect that to change as it looks like this will be a popular program.

GOV. STITT CELEBRATES LAUNCH OF OK PARENTAL CHOICE TAX CREDIT

OKLAHOMA CITY (December 7, 2023) - Governor Kevin Stitt today celebrated the launch of the Oklahoma Parental Choice Tax Credit program and revealed the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC) received over 30,000 submissions within the first 90 minutes of launch. OTC, alongside its operational partner Merit, began accepting applications on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. CST. To date, approximately 140 accredited schools have been registered to participate.

Cong. Brecheen holding his final telephone town hall of the year TONIGHT

Congressman Josh Brecheen To Host Final Telephone Town Hall of the Year TONIGHT, December 5th at 7 PM CT

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Josh Brecheen will be hosting the final telephone town hall of the year tonight, Tuesday, December 5th at 7 PM CT.

During the call, Congressman Brecheen will provide an update on some of the most pressing policy issues facing our country, including our more than $33 trillion national debt, and answer live questions from constituents.

Details for participating in the call are below:

• Date: Tuesday, December 5th, 2023
• Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m. CT
• Dial-in Number: 888-480-3675

Constituents should dial 888-480-3675 if they would like to participate in the call. To watch a live stream of the call, constituents can visit our Facebook page here.

State Auditor Cindy Byrd endorses Trump

Just in from State Auditor Cindy Byrd:

STATE AUDITOR CINDY BYRD ENDORSES PRESIDENT TRUMP

(Dec. 4th) "I am supporting President Trump in 2024."

"As Oklahoma State Auditor, I have seen the erosion of the dollar under the Biden administration. Biden's poor fiscal policies coupled with the national debt is crippling our State."

State Sup't Walters praises successful Thanksgiving break tutoring program

Walters Praises Successful Thanksgiving Break Tutoring Program

Oklahoma City, Okla – State Superintendent Ryan Walters hailed the success of a tutoring program designed to help at-risk students who are behind on reading with literacy support during the Thanksgiving holiday break.

Rush Limbaugh and Paul Harvey on Thanksgiving Day's origins

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you are able to take time today to spend time with loved ones, think back over the past year and forward to the next, and thank God for the many blessings you have been given. In this post, you'll find three videos for the day: Rush Limbaugh and Paul Harvey on the origins of Thanksgiving Day, and 'Tennessee Ernie' Ford singing an old Dutch hymn of thanksgiving, We Gather Together. I hope you'll listen to them.

Black Friday at Muskogee's Glenndale Grace Firearms

Glenndale Grace Firearms & Training, a gun range and store located just north of Muskogee on U.S. Highway 69, is marking 'Black Friday' and 'Small Business Saturday' this week with a special sale on classes, memberships, and their store inventory:

Cong. Brecheen files bills to fight back against Biden's pro-abortion agenda

Congressman Josh Brecheen Introduces Two Bills to Fight Back Against the Biden Administration’s Pro-Abortion Agenda

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Josh Brecheen introduced two bills today to fight back against the Biden Administration’s far-Left, pro-abortion agenda.

Att'y Gen. Drummond issues opinion, guidance on state abortion laws

Drummond issues opinion, guidance on state abortion laws

OKLAHOMA CITY (Nov. 21, 2023) - Attorney General Gentner Drummond issued a formal opinion today explaining that Oklahoma law does not allow pregnant women to be punished for seeking, performing or self-inducing an abortion to intentionally terminate their pregnancy. The opinion was requested by four state senators and two state representatives.

“Oklahoma law does not allow the punishment of pregnant women attempting an abortion,” the opinion states. “The Legislature has repeatedly made this clear and just last year, repealed the one law that would have expressly allowed such a prosecution.”

The opinion notes that while Oklahoma law does not allow for pregnant women to be prosecuted, abortion is legally prohibited throughout pregnancy except to save the life of the mother. The opinion notes that historically, in Oklahoma and nationwide, pregnant women have not been prosecuted for seeking, obtaining or inducing an abortion.

Small: Questionable ethics at Ethics Commission

Questionable ethics at Ethics Commission

By Jonathan Small

One of the most important jobs of a state attorney general is to protect citizens from overreaching government, so Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond deserves praise for reining in the Oklahoma Ethics Commission.

In a letter sent to the Oklahoma Ethics Commission on Sept. 21, Drummond told the agency that day’s meeting should be rescheduled “due to clear violations of the Open Meeting Act which have come to my attention.”

Walters introduces classroom discipline reform, aimed to empower teachers and parents

Walters Introduces Sweeping Classroom Discipline Reform

New Program Will Empower Teachers and Parents

Oklahoma City, Okla (Nov. 16th) – State Superintendent Ryan Walters announced Comprehensive Discipline Reform for Oklahoma schools today. Walters’ plan implements needed reform that empowers teachers’ and parents’ rights to hold students accountable, creating stronger education standards in Oklahoma’s classrooms.

“I hear from parents and teachers throughout our state that our classrooms are difficult to manage effectively, causing breakdowns in discipline which ultimately drive down student achievement,” said Walters. “We are empowering teachers to effectively manage their classrooms while helping keep parents informed about classroom discipline. “

State Sen. Pugh files bill to protect military surviving spouse benefits

Pugh files bill to protect military surviving spouse benefits

OKLAHOMA CITY (Nov. 9th) – As Oklahomans prepare to celebrate Veteran’s Day, Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, filed legislation Thursday to honor veterans killed in action by protecting the benefits of their surviving spouses. He pointed out that surviving spouses only get benefits as long as they do not remarry before the age of 55 – an unfair and disrespectful federal law that Pugh hopes to raise awareness of with Senate Bill 1201, while also providing assistance for those loved ones left behind in Oklahoma.  

Walters touts statewide tutoring program launch, open transfer success in Minco

In Minco, Walters Announces Success of Tutoring Program

Oklahoma City, Okla (Nov. 17th) – State Superintendent Ryan Walters visited Minco schools today to announce the successful launch of the statewide tutoring program and to highlight the highly successful open transfer and academic programs in Minco Public Schools.

Lankford: stop gov't shutdowns by making politicians suffer consequences of their dysfunction

Want to prevent government shutdowns? Make politicians suffer the consequences of their dysfunction

By Sen. James Lankford (R-OK) & Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX)

If a business owner fails to generate profits, they are forced to lay people off or shutter their business. If a family can’t pay their utility bill, their water shuts off. If a student doesn’t finish their schoolwork, they don’t get to enjoy recess.

In the real world, the people who fail to fulfill their responsibilities suffer the consequences themselves.

However, Congress plays by different rules. When Congress fails to pass our spending bills on time to fund the government, it’s the public, and particularly taxpayers and our men and women in uniform, who bear the greatest burden of unnecessary and irresponsible government shutdowns.

State Auditor releases audit of Talihina Schools, finds thousands in improper spending by superintendent

CINDY BYRD RELEASES TALIHINA SCHOOLS AUDIT

“Transparency, oversight, and accountability were disregarded.”

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK (November 16, 2023) -- Oklahoma State Auditor & Inspector Cindy Byrd today publicly released her audit of Talihina Public Schools. This investigative audit was requested by the citizens of the school district.

The primary findings of interest are the credit card expenditures of the school superintendent. Superintendent Jason Lockhart failed to provide receipts for more than $11,000 worth of purchases. 

State Dep't of Ed releases statewide school report card; Walters call scores "unacceptable"

OSDE Releases Statewide School Report Card

Stagnant, Unacceptable Results Show Need for Back to Basics

Oklahoma City, Okla (Nov. 15th) – The Oklahoma State Department of Education released the statewide School Report Card today, showing results for testing in Spring, 2023.

OK Congressional delegation asks Navy to name ship in honor of Checotah's heroic WWII sailor Paul Henry Carr

This is such a great idea. A year ago, I read 'The Last Stand of the Tin Can Sailors' by James D. Hornfischer (highly recommend), which focuses on an major but lesser-known naval engagement in the Pacific during WWII, the Battle off Samar (part of the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf). 

Oklahoma had several native sons who received the highest military honors for their gallant service during this unequal conflict between a lightly armed/armored American naval task force ("tin cans") and the biggest, baddest ships the Japanese navy had afloat - including the battleship Yamato, heaviest ever built and with the largest guns ever placed on a ship. Checotah's Paul Henry Carr is one of those heroes; you can read more about him here, here, and here (Muskogee's Ernest E. Evans was another).

Lankford Leads Oklahoma Congressional Delegation to Request US Navy Ship Naming to Honor Oklahoma WWII Sailor

WASHINGTON, DC – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today led the Oklahoma congressional delegation in a letter to Secretary of the United States Navy Carlos Del Torro to recommend the naming of a new Constellation-class frigate in honor of Oklahoman Paul Henry Carr, from Checotah, Oklahoma, who gave his last full measure of devotion to our nation aboard the USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413) during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in World War II.