'Common Cents Act' takes on penny problems, advances in OK House

Common Cents Act takes on penny problems, advances in House

OKLAHOMA CITY (February 4th) — Legislation that would allow and later require certain public cash transactions to be rounded to the nearest nickel has passed a House policy committee and now moves to an oversight committee.

Authored by Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa, House Bill 3075, formally titled the Oklahoma Common Cents Act, would not apply to the private sector and would apply only to public payments made in cash or the portion paid in cash. The measure does not apply to checks, debit cards, credit cards, electronic payments or other digital transactions.

"This is a simple, practical bill that modernizes how we handle cash payments without impacting anyone who pays digitally," Hildebrant said. "HB3075 is limited to public cash transactions only. If you’re paying online or with a card, nothing changes."

Bridenstine endorses Rogers County Treasurer Jason Carini for reelection

Congressman Jim Bridenstine with Jason and Jessica Carini

Rogers County Treasurer Jason Carini announced today that he has received the endorsement of Congressman Jim Bridenstine.

"I am proud to endorse Jason Carini for re-election as Rogers County Treasurer," said Congressman Bridenstine. "I've known Treasurer Carini for over 5 years and believe he is a man of strong moral character. I am confident he will continue to serve the people of Rogers Count with integrity."

"It is a privilege to have the endorsement from my friend, Congressman Bridenstine," said Carini. "We have made a lot of positive changes at the Rogers County Courthouse these past couple years. I look forward to the election season next year and am honored to have the support from leaders such as Congressman Bridenstine."

Treasurer Carini was first elected in 2014, defeating a 24-year incumbent. Before being elected, Carini was a small business owner for over 5 years, operating his business debt free. Treasurer Carini and his family reside in Catoosa.

Primary Election: My Take

Due to recent family events, I have been unable to blog much in the last week or so about the primary election, coming up tomorrow (Tuesday the 24th). This post will briefly cover some of my picks -- although not as thorough as I might have done were circumstances different.

U.S. Senate (unexpired term): James Lankford
Either way, we will have a conservative Senator replacing Tom Coburn. However, while I disagree with some of Lankford's votes, I have fewer reservations with him than I do with Shannon. Brogdon is a total non-factor, and has a bad habit of exhibiting poor judgement (i.e. when he got into the governor's race on Christmas, then switched to Senate, etc).
U.S. House, District 2: Darrel Robertson
U.S. House, District 5: Steve Russell
Governor: Dax Ewbank
I have been very disappointed with Fallin as governor, and will be casting a protest vote for Ewbank.
State Superintendent: ???
I am still undecided in this race. Barresi has alienated many conservatives while in office, but at the same time others are wary of Hofmeister's connections. I'm open to be convinced.
Insurance Commissioner: John Doak
Corporation Commissioner: Todd Hiett
Muskogee County Commissioner, District 1: Ken Doke
It's a shame that Muskogee County Republicans have a primary in this race, and both Ken and Mike Stewart would be great county commissioners. However, I think Ken has the best chance at winning this heavily Democratic seat, and will bring a different, more conservative approach to the office.
Rogers County Treasurer: Jason Carini
Jason is a good friend of mine, and threw his hat into the ring when nobody else would do something about the problems at the Rogers County Treasurer's office. Here's a good synopsis on BatesLine.

Michael Bates has a good post on his take, although he and I differ on a few races. Read his here.

Jason Carini for House District 23

Jason Carini files for Oklahoma House District 23

Catoosa resident and small businessman wants to promote smaller and more transparent government.

Catoosa, OK --  Jason Carini, small business owner and Vice Chair of Rogers County Republican Party, has announced his campaign for Oklahoma State House District 23 [note: this is the late Rep. Sue Tibbs' district].  House District 23 includes portions of Wagoner, Tulsa and Rogers counties, and incorporates the cities of Tulsa, Catoosa, and Verdigris.  A big believer in smaller government, Carini said, “I believe that government should create an environment that encourages business growth.  I also support the current legislature’s effort to end the state income tax and let citizens keep their own money.”  

Carini was home educated through high school and graduated in 2006 from Patrick Henry College in Virginia with a Bachelor of Science in Public Policy.   He and his brother co-own Green Country Mowing, founded in 2009.  Carini has previously worked and volunteered for numerous conservative organizations and campaigns, getting his start with Dr. Tom Coburn’s 2004 Senate race.  Jason and his wife Jessica live in Catoosa and are expecting their first child in June.

To learn more, please visit www.JasonCarini.com.


I have known Jason for many years, and can personally vouch for his character and conservatism. In a time when practically all Republican candidates and elected officials claim the title 'conservative', fewer actually deserve it. Jason has been dedicated to the conservative cause since before he could vote, and has proven that commitment through his involvement with grassroots organizations and campaigns over the years. His hard work has been evident not only in his political involvement, but also in building his business.

The residents of House District 23 won't find a better man for the job, and the state will benefit if Carini is successful in his bid. With the GOP in complete control of state government, we must elect principled statesmen who will work to cut the size of government, protect individual liberty, and defend our Judeo-Christian values. Conservatives across the state would do well to support Jason's efforts.