Bice endorsed by prominent OK Ag leaders

Oklahoma Agriculture Leaders Endorse Stephanie Bice for Congress

OKLAHOMA CITY (Aug. 11, 2020) – Stephanie Bice, Republican candidate for Congress in Oklahoma’s 5th district, is proud to announce the endorsement of leaders from across Oklahoma’s farm and ranch community.

“My colleagues and I are proud to endorse Stephanie Bice to be the next Congresswoman for the fifth district. We’re disgusted by the attacks against Stephanie in this race from Never-Trumper group Club for Growth,” said Mike Schultz, farmer and former President Pro Tempore of the Oklahoma State Senate.

“This same organization lobbied hard against farmers and ranchers to defeat the Farm Bill. They’re no friend to the farming and ranching community in our state and we can’t let them buy this race for Stephanie’s opponent.”

Schulz and Hofmeister respond to veto referendum ruling

Senate Pro Tem comments on court's ruling on SQ 799 referendum petition

OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus, released the following comment regarding the Oklahoma Supreme Court's ruling on State Question 799 and referendum petition:

“I am pleased the Oklahoma Supreme Court rejected the effort to repeal HB 1010xx. The Legislature took extraordinary steps in passing HB 1010xx and it is absolutely necessary to fully fund the largest teacher pay raise in state history and the significant increase in education funding passed this session. We should all now turn our focus toward working for the resources and reforms necessary to support our teachers and ensure our children get the best education possible.”

Hofmeister hails court decision clearing way for teacher pay raise

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister made the following remarks after today’s decision on State Question 799 by the Oklahoma Supreme Court:

”The bipartisan passage of House Bill 1010xx was a significant step forward for all Oklahomans. I commend the Oklahoma Supreme Court for rejecting a repeal effort of this landmark legislation. At long last, we can reward our dedicated, hardworking public school teachers with the competitive pay they deserve. On the heels of a school year in which 1 in 7 students was taught by an untrained teacher, we can, and we must, now begin stemming the tide of Oklahoma’s crippling teacher shortage. Today’s decision clears the way for funding regionally competitive teacher pay, ushering in a new era of stability that is not only a win for public education, but for our kids and the future of our state.”

State Senate approves $7.6B FY'19 budget

Oklahoma Senate approves FY’19 budget giving education, mental health, criminal justice reform significant increases

OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma Senate on Wednesday approved a $7.6 billion general appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2019 that gives significant funding increases for common education, mental health services, child welfare programs, and criminal justice reform.

“For the first time in years, we have a budget in which no agency receives a cut. The budget contains a 19 percent increase for common education, more than $24 million for the Department of Human Services to fully fund the Pinnacle Plan, and $11 million for multiple criminal justice reform measures,” said President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus. “This budget puts additional resources toward core services like education, mental health, child welfare services, and public safety. And early approval of this budget increases the likelihood the Legislature can adjourn early, saving the additional costs of a few more weeks of session.”

“In this budget, Oklahoma Senate Republicans undeniably have demonstrated our commitment to education. This budget contains $365 million for a $6,100 on average teacher pay raise, $52 million for support staff raises, $33 million for textbooks, and $17 million in new funding for the school funding formula. We also secured $7.5 million in funding for concurrent enrollment. Education is important to the success of our state which is why Senate Republicans worked so hard to secure significant increases for our students, teachers, and schools in this budget,” Schulz said.

Senate Appropriations Chair Kim David, R-Porter, said, “After years of economic recession in Oklahoma that led to massive cuts to the state budget, our state has finally turned the corner and this year’s budget reflects that. The fiscal year 2019 budget has $260 million in growth revenue due to policy changes and growth in the economy. That growth means our budget is on more stable financial footing because it has greatly reduced our reliance on so-called ‘one-time money.’ It’s a great feeling to have no agency budget cuts, and instead have a budget that puts significantly more money toward education, mental health services, and public safety.”

Highlights of the FY’19 budget:

- $7.6 billion budget

• Approximately $745 million increase over FY’18$365 million for teacher pay raises
• $54 million for state employee raises
• $260 million in growth revenue
• No cuts for any agency

- $2.9 billion for common education, a 19 percent increase

• $6,100 teacher pay raise, on average
• $52 million for support staff raises
• $33 million for textbooks
• $17 million in new state-aid funding formula
• $7.5 million increase for concurrent enrollment

- $24.6 million funding increase for Department of Human Services, fully funding Pinnacle Plan

• 7 percent increase for Medicaid Advantage waiver, Developmental Disability and Group Home rate increases
• 5 percent increase on foster care and adoption rates
• $2 million increase for the Developmental Disabilities Services Division (DDSD) wait list

- $11 million in criminal justice reform initiatives

• $5 million to Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
• $1.1 million to Oklahoma Indigent Defense System (OIDS)
• $1 million to District Attorney’s Council

- $2 million for agency performance audits conducted by Agency Performance and Accountability Commission

- $4.8 million to Department of Corrections to implement electronic offender management system

- $4 million to Office of Emergency Management for disaster relief

- $400,000 to Department of Agriculture for rural fire fighters

Senate passes online sales tax collection, gambling expansion bills to fund education

Oklahoma Senate passes revenue measures to fund education

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate on Friday approved measures that will send millions of new dollars into Oklahoma classrooms.

The Senate gave approval to HB 1019xx, a bill that requires online marketplaces like Amazon to collect and remit sales tax to Oklahoma or comply with the state’s notification requirements. The Oklahoma Tax Commission estimates the bill will generate $20.5 million annually.

“The Oklahoma Senate has shown repeatedly its commitment to students and teachers first by passing the largest teacher pay raise in state history and now by approving measures providing millions of dollars in new funding for Oklahoma classrooms,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus.

The Oklahoma Senate last week approved a teacher pay raise bill, giving Oklahoma teachers a $6,100 pay raise on average. The pay raise bill already has been signed into law. To fund the teacher pay raises and provide millions of dollars in funding for textbooks and teacher health care benefits, the Senate also gave approval to revenue measures generating $530 million in new, recurring revenue to fully and perpetually fund the raises and increased education spending.

“Increasing average teacher pay in Oklahoma to the second-highest in our region and putting more dollars into the classroom will help us retain and recruit quality, professional educators to help our students and our state succeed. As we move forward, the Senate stands committed to considering additional ways to put more dollars into our classrooms, as wells as reforms that best serve students, parents and teachers,” Schulz said.

The Senate on Friday also gave approval to HB 3375, the so-called “ball and dice” gaming bill. For the current fiscal year, the Oklahoma Tax Commission cannot certify revenue generated by this bill. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services, the state’s gaming compliance agency, anticipates the measure will bring new revenue into the state.

Last week, the Oklahoma Senate approved the FY’19 education budget bill, only the second time the April 1 “Fund Education First” deadline has been met by the Legislature. The education budget, which has been signed into law, allocates more than $2.9 billion to Oklahoma schools, a 19 percent increase from the previous year.

Senate passes $530M tax hike to fund teacher pay raises

Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz was joined by Gov. Mary Fallin, Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Sen. Kim David, Senate Majority Floor Leader Greg Treat and Senate Appropriations Vice Chair Eddie Fields Wednesday evening following the Senate's approval of a teacher pay raise package.

Senate passes revenue package to fund teacher pay raises

OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma Senate on Wednesday passed a historic revenue package to fund a $6,100, or 16 percent, pay raise on average for Oklahoma teachers. That increase moves Oklahoma from seventh to second highest in the region in average teacher pay and is the largest teacher pay raise in the history of the state.

“The Oklahoma Senate took a historic step that will have positive and long-lasting impacts on the success of our state. One of the most important factors in the success of our students is a quality, professional teacher in the classroom. Passing the largest teacher pay raise in state history moves us to No. 2 in the region in average teacher pay and will help Oklahoma retain quality teachers. It’s a significant investment in economic development because an educated workforce is essential to growing and expanding our economy. For more than 15 months, the Senate has worked tirelessly to fund a significant teacher pay raise. This is a responsible plan that answers Oklahomans’ call for the Legislature to find a solution to teacher pay. I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for their dedication to finding a solution and seeing a teacher pay raise come to fruition,” said Senate Pro Tem Mike Schulz, R-Altus.

HB 1010xx provides $447 million in revenue by increasing the gross production to 5 percent on all wells, increasing the cigarette tax $1 per pack, and increasing the gas tax 3 cents and the diesel tax 6 cents. 

The Senate also advanced HB 1011xx, which provides an additional $84.3 million for teacher pay by making changes to the state income tax code.

Senate bringing top agencies back for further budget hearings

Senate bringing top agencies back for further budget hearings

OKLAHOMA CITY - The Oklahoma Senate on Tuesday will hold the first of a series of hearings to further review the budgets of the top appropriated state agencies.

“Whether the state is in an economic boom or a bust, one of our most important jobs is providing oversight of how agencies spend our tax dollars to ensure taxpayers are getting the best bang for their buck,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus. “These hearings will provide senators with more information about agency budgets and spending, which, in turn, will help us make more informed decisions when it comes to writing the budget.”

Schulz said typically, agency budget hearings are held by appropriations subcommittees during the interim. Bringing agencies back to the Capitol during the legislative session for a hearing in front of the full Senate Appropriations Committee will give all senators and the public an opportunity to learn more about agency budgeting and spending practices, he said.

Senator Kim David, chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said the total appropriations of the agencies that will appear before the Senate Appropriations Committee represent 92 percent of the annual appropriated state budget.

“These agencies consume the lion’s share of the appropriated state budget so it makes sense that we give more time to review these budgets,” said David, R-Porter. “These budget hearings will assist us in providing oversight of how agencies spend your tax dollars. Additionally, holding hearings during the session will bring more people into the process, providing lawmakers and the public with even more information about the state budget.”

The hearings will be held in Room 535 of the Oklahoma Capitol. The hearing schedule (subject to change, if necessary) is as follows:

Tuesday, Feb. 20
3:30 pm:  Oklahoma Ethics Commission
4:30 pm:  Oklahoma State Department of Education

Tuesday, Feb. 27
3:30 pm:  Oklahoma Health Care Authority
4:30 pm:  Oklahoma Health Department

Tuesday, March 6
3:30 pm:  State Regents for Higher Education
4:30 pm:  Department of Public Safety and/or Office of Juvenile Affairs

Tuesday, March 13
3:30 pm:  Department of Human Services
4:30 pm:  Department of Career and Technology Education

Tuesday, March 20
3:30 pm:  Department of Corrections
4:30 pm:  Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Tuesday, March 27
3:30 pm:  Department of Transportation
4:30 pm:  Office of Management and Enterprise Services

Senate Pro Tem comments on Fallin's State of the State

Oklahoma Senate leader comments on Governor's State of the State address

OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus, released the following comment regarding Governor Mary Fallin's State of the State address:

“The Oklahoma Senate appreciates Governor Fallin’s emphasis on solving our budget issues. The Senate has repeatedly passed responsible revenue measures that would help fix the structural problems in our state budget and pay for important things like a teacher pay raise. But we can’t only focus on revenue. We need to implement budgetary reforms and prioritize our spending to ensure the most efficient use and best return on each tax dollar collected. We look forward to working with the governor and our colleagues in the House on solutions to our budget problems so that we can move Oklahoma in the right direction.”

Sen. Schulz: veto doesn't help, 2nd special session "seems like a waste"

Senate leader comments on veto of revised budget

OKLAHOMA CITY - Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus, released the following comment on the governor's veto of the revised FY'18 budget:

"We are surprised by the governor’s veto. The governor’s office was involved in the negotiation of the revised budget agreement, but did not indicate the agreement was insufficient and would be vetoed. The revised budget agreement was not the Senate’s first choice to resolve the budget crisis but it was the only option after the House showed it was not able to meet the constitutional standards of raising revenue. Bringing the Legislature back into special session at this point seems like a waste of time and taxpayer dollars. The governor’s veto doesn’t help Oklahoma thrive, it only serves to throw our budget further into chaos.”

LAs and EAs: "Unsung Heroes" of a Legislative Session

As the special session continues, I thought it would be helpful for constituents and concerned citizens to learn a little bit about some of the staff that work in the State Legislature. As the son of a legislator and husband of a former House legislative assistant, I'm more familiar with the vital but unseen work that a legislator's assistant performs. I think that the general public is mostly unaware of the work load an assistant can be carrying, and sometimes needs a friendly reminder about how best to interact with "LAs" and "EAs".

For this, I reached out to Grace McMillan, a legislative assistant who has worked in both the House and the Senate, and operates TheHouseandSenate.com - a very informative website devoted to helping normal citizens navigate their state government.

I’m glad to answer questions about the dedicated assistants who work at the Oklahoma State Capitol in the House of Representatives and State Senate. The House employs a combination of “session only” and full-time Legislative Assistants. The Senate employs full-time Executive Assistants.

“Session only” assistants in the House of Representatives are just what the title describes: they work during session only, mostly four days a week, until session becomes very busy and Friday session days on the House and Senate floors become necessary. There are 101 House districts in Oklahoma, each served by a Representative who is up for election/re-election every two years.

The legislative session in Oklahoma runs from the first Monday in February through the end of May. As Representatives gain seniority and duties become more pressing with possible committee chairmanship and/or leadership positions, they are permitted one full-time Legislative Assistant who serves in the office during the interim and session, or year-round.

There are 48 Senate districts in Oklahoma; Senators serve four-year terms and have a larger constituency. Each Senator has a full-time assistant.

Assistants in both Houses are very busy during session. The assistant is the first person the visitor sees when they enter the office. It is our job and truly our pleasure to take note of the concerns of every visitor to the office. We answer the busy phones and we have access to our legislator’s emails. It is the assistant’s job is to discover the reason for a phone call. If a constituent has questions, most of the time we can answer them or put the caller in contact with someone who can. We are glad to explain the legislative process and if we are given a bill number, we can explain where it is and what will happen next.

Special session has had its own challenges because understandably, many concerned people’s lives are affected by legislation that is enacted in the Capitol at this time. The situation is very fluid and the news literally changes every hour as legislative leaders work to negotiate a budget deal.

The most important thing we can tell our constituents is this: find out who your legislators are (you have one state Representative and one state Senator) and contact those offices. That is the most efficient, effective way to make your voice heard during these times. If you leave a voice mail or send an email, be sure to leave your name, your phone number and the city you live in. The name of the city you live in is how we know if you are in our district.

Here are some very practical tips for constituents to make their email stand out from the thousands of “template” emails we see:

• Send an email using your own email address, rather than a website form.
• Use your own words without copying and pasting from a template.
• Write a good Subject line. It’s the “title” of your email; good Subject lines help us file the email for future reference.
• Include your name and address.
• If you have a question that requires an answer, please ask the question obviously.
• If you would like our help with an issue, include pertinent details, attaching pertinent information.
Many constituents are tempted to contact all state legislators with their concerns; please know that each office responds to the constituents they represent, so you may be redirected. We will do our very best to understand your concerns and respond appropriately.

Grace McMillan has served in the House of Representatives as session only and full-time Legislative Assistant, and currently serves in the Oklahoma State Senate as Executive Assistant. She is the webmaster and administrator of theHouseandSenate.com, a public website dedicated to the navigation of Oklahoma state government.

As Grace pointed out, many of the State Representatives have a "session-only" assistant, so during the interim full-time LAs handle the office-work for multiple Representatives. During this special session, it's important to remember when you call a legislator that the House LAs might be taking phone calls for as many as three or four different House members/districts.

The work of the House LAs and Senate EAs is a vital part of the governmental process, allowing legislators to hear from and serve their constituents in an organized and timely manner.

I reached out to both House Speaker Charles McCall and Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz for their comments on the work that the assistants do. When I receive a response from Speaker McCall, I'll update this post.

“The unsung heroes at the Oklahoma Capitol are the legislative staff and executive assistants. The Oklahoma Senate couldn’t function without them. Whether they are helping constituents solve problems and connect with state agencies, or providing research and tracking down data, the legislative staff and executive assistants make the job of an senator a little easier. They are honorable men and women who work hard each day to serve the state of Oklahoma.” - Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz.

When you contact your legislator, remember to be courteous and considerate to the person who answers the phone. They provide a great service to the State of Oklahoma.

Senate Pro Tem says budget cuts will be more severe because of failed vote

Oklahoma Senate leader says budget cuts will be more severe because of failed vote

OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz commented on the failed  revenue vote in the Oklahoma House:

“Because the Oklahoma House of Representatives did not advance the bipartisan revenue deal, teachers and state employees won’t get a much-needed pay raise and cuts to mental health and other services will be much more severe. The cuts will be deep and spread out across all government. This is not where any of us wanted to be, but we are here because the revenue bill failed in the House. The financial scandal at the Health Department is an unexpected and costly expense. If we spend everything we have now, there won’t be any money left for other emergencies that could arise. And spending even more one-time money now makes next year’s budget deficit - already forecast at $560 million - even larger. The Oklahoma Senate will work to minimize the impact of cuts on core services.”

Senate passes resolution asking House to add GPT to budget deal

Senate approves bipartisan resolution asking House to add GPT increase to budget deal

OKLAHOMA CITY – To deliver teachers a $3,000 pay raise and to prevent massive cuts to mental health and other health care services, the Oklahoma Senate in a bipartisan vote approved a resolution Thursday requesting the House of Representatives amend the budget deal to include an increase in the gross production tax of oil and natural gas.

The Senate resolution asks the House to amend the budget agreement bill (HB 1035X) to include an increase in the gross production tax on new oil and gas wells to four percent for a period of 36 months.

Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus, said: “Teachers deserve a pay raise and we can’t let mental health services, rural hospitals and child welfare services bear the brunt of massive budget cuts. Though the deal we announced earlier this week achieved those goals, it’s clear it cannot pass unless gross production taxes are included. Adding GPT to the budget deal certainly wasn’t my first choice, but if it breaks the stalemate it is an option we have to pursue. We now have an opportunity to deliver on teacher pay raises, stop massive budget cuts to health care, and eliminate the constant budget problems plaguing our state. I’m grateful my Democratic and Republican colleagues in the Senate showed leadership in approving this compromise to move Oklahoma forward. We’re hopeful our colleagues in the House will act quickly and join us in solving this problem.”

Senate Democratic Leader John Sparks, D-Norman, said: “This is the time for leadership, real compromise and a long-term plan of action for Oklahoma and its people. We are committed to working together with the Governor and Senate and House leadership toward a resolution that benefits all Oklahomans.”

What's the cost of the new budget proposal?

Governor Mary Fallin, House Speaker Charles McCall, and Senate Pro Tem Mike Schulz announced a budget proposal this morning that includes a bevy of tax hikes and new spending. Not included in the initial press release was a total of the cost associated with the plan.

I asked Governor Fallin's press office for the details, but as of this hour have not received any response. I've attempted to locate the costs by looking at previous legislative plans and adjusting for the different levels, to get an idea of the figures. Here's what I've come up with (the Tulsa World also has some figures here, although they differ from mine in some instances).


Tax hikes: ~$413M to ~$458M

• $1.50 tax on a package of cigarettes: approximately $215M (Tulsa World says $260M, which is odd given that the $215M shortfall was due to the exact same fee tax being ruled unconstitutional)
• The plan includes taxing smokeless tobacco and cigars: about $13M (per Tulsa World's figures)
• 6-cent fuel tax increase: based off this 2016 article, approximately $170M (Tulsa World agrees with my figure)
• Revise taxes on alcoholic beverages: Tulsa World says about $15M

Additional spending: ~$194M to ~$225M

• Restoring the Earned Income Tax credit: approximately $15M based off legislation earlier this year (Tulsa World says about $29M)
• $3,000 teacher pay increase: approximately $160M based off legislation earlier this year (Tulsa World says $144M)
• $1,000 increase for state employees: approximately $35M according to the OPEA's figures (Tulsa World says $36M)

According to the Tulsa World, the plan also includes $25M of Rainy Day Fund monies.

If I get a response back with the official figures, I'll post it.

BREAKING: Fallin, Schulz and McCall announce Special Session Budget Agreement

Special Session Budget Agreement Reached

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin, Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz and House Speaker Charles McCall today reached an agreement adjusting the 2018 fiscal year budget that, among other things, helps fill the $215 million budget hole and puts Oklahoma on a more stable budget path, as well as provides a needed teacher pay raise.

If passed by the Legislature, the agreement would:

• Place a $1.50 tax on a package of cigarettes.
• Provide for a 6-cent fuel tax increase.
• Revise taxes on alcoholic beverages.
• Restore the Earned Income Tax credit.
• Provide for a $3,000 teacher pay increase, effective Aug. 1, 2018.
• Provide for a $1,000 increase for state employees, effective Aug. 1, 2018. It does not pertain to higher education, legislators or constitutional officers, such as statewide elected officials and judges.

“This agreement is the result of countless hours of discussions and meetings,” said Fallin. “I appreciate President Pro Tem Schulz and Speaker McCall working to provide a long-term solution to our state’s continuing budget shortfalls. It is apparent that rapid changes in our economy have created unsustainable and unpredictable revenue collection patterns. We need to seek long-term sustainability and stability as opposed to unpredictability and volatility. This agreement makes more recurring revenue available, helps us stop balancing our budget with one-time funds, and provides a teacher pay raise as well as a raise for our hard-working state employees, who have not had an across-the-board pay increase in eleven years. And, most importantly, it provides sufficient revenues to meet the basic responsibilities of state government, such as education, health and public safety. We must deliver services that work for the people, and put people over politics.”

Schulz said: The Legislature has a tremendous opportunity with this deal to solve our immediate budget crisis, put the state on more solid financial ground moving forward, and deliver on a much-needed and much-deserved pay raise for classroom teachers and most state employees. As Senate leader, I’ve stressed to senators the importance of long-term thinking and planning. This deal gives us the chance to deliver on that, and institute reforms that will have a tremendous impact on our state for years to come. I appreciate Governor Fallin and her staff, Speaker McCall and his team, and the members of the Senate leadership team for their hard work in bringing this deal to fruition.”

 McCall said: “We believe this plan gives us the best opportunity to pass the House and Senate, and provide the state with needed revenue to stabilize mental health and substance abuse programs, keep rural hospitals open, and provide a pay raise that would make Oklahoma teachers the highest paid in the region for starting pay. This plan also provides recurring revenue for transportation infrastructure and restores the Earned Income Tax Credit for low-income Oklahomans, which more than offsets any increased consumption costs for low-income earners.”

Schulz releases Senate GOP budget plan for special session

Pro Tem releases Senate GOP budget plan

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz on Monday released the Senate Republicans' plan to address the $215 million hole in the Fiscal Year 2018 state budget.

“This plan not only addresses the immediate need of $215 million for critical health care agencies that was struck down in court, but it also provides recurring  revenue streams to help us address the long-term stability of the budget and prevent further cuts to core government services,” said Schulz, R-Altus.

“Oklahoma Senate Republicans have proven our willingness to address the state's long-term budget problems by passing a similar revenue package during the regular session. The elements of this plan for special session were fully vetted by the Senate during the regular session, and all received the necessary votes to pass constitutional muster. I’m confident Senate Republicans, if given the chance, again will put Oklahoma’s interests first and will be able to pass this responsible revenue plan that ensures education, public safety, transportation and other core services avoid further cuts.”

The Senate plan is as follows:

• $1.50 per-pack increase in the cigarette tax, which generates $128.9 million in Fiscal Year 2018 and leaves $122.4 million for FY’18 appropriation;
• a six-cent increase in the motor fuels tax, which generates $71 million in FY’18 and leaves $67.45 million for FY’18 appropriation; and
• the elimination of the wind manufacturer sales tax exemption, which generates $10.97 million in FY’18 and leaves $9.87 million for FY’18 appropriation.

Because FY’18 collections are for less than a full fiscal year, the Senate plan also calls for a drawdown of $15.2 million from the Rainy Day Fund to entirely plug the hole in the FY’18 budget.

The governor’s call for special session included other issues like a teacher pay raise and finding more efficiency in government spending. Schulz said while the immediate need is addressing the FY’18 budget hole, Senate Republicans were open to considering those issues during the special session.

“Senate Republicans have said all along we must first address the short-term budget issues before acting on a teacher pay raise plan. Once we take care of the budget, Senate Republicans would consider a teacher pay plan that includes a permanent funding source,” Schulz said. “Additionally, Senate Republicans will keep working on making government more efficient and effective. We’ll keep pouring over agency spending and look at options like consolidation to improve the quality and delivery of services. There’s no doubt agencies can be more efficient in spending taxpayer dollars, and Senate Republicans will keep working on behalf of Oklahomans to make sure that happens.”

Pro Tem Schulz pushes cigarette tax, urges pre-special session agreement

Senate Pro Tem urges lawmakers to come together with revenue plan ahead of special session

With a special session less than two weeks away, Oklahoma Senate Pro Tem Mike Schulz called on lawmakers to put partisan politics aside and come together on a plan to fill the $215 million budget hole created by court rulings this summer.

“The special session is rapidly approaching and all we’ve seen so far is political games from both sides of the aisle. I understand why the public would think it’s ‘déjà vu all over again’ and worry that the special session will be a repeat of the end of regular session," said Schulz, R-Altus.

“We don’t have time in a special session for ideas that have not been thoroughly vetted in the legislative process. We don’t have time to rehash arguments from the past two years. Before the special session is gaveled in, we need to have an agreement and plan in place so that we can move quickly and effectively. It’s time to come together. It’s time to stop bickering and playing political games. It’s time to do the job Oklahomans elected us to do."

“Senate Republicans have met three times since the initial court ruling that left a $215 million hole in the budget. We’re preparing for every scenario, but it’s clear to the Senate that the best path forward is to pass a $1.50 cigarette tax increase. The Senate passed a cigarette tax during the regular session and the Senate is ready to move on it again if the House can send one our way."

“Let’s do this now, get it done quickly in special session to address the budget hole and return our entire focus to important issues like job creation and economic development, regulatory and tax reform, and increasing educational quality and opportunity for Oklahomans.”

Senate Pro Tem Schulz comments on new vehicle sales tax being upheld

Senate Pro Tem Comments on Win in Vehicle Sales Tax Lawsuit

Senate President Pro Tem Mike Schulz, R-Altus, released the following statement after the Oklahoma Supreme Court upheld as constitutional House Bill 2433, a bill modifying Oklahoma's vehicle sales tax:

“As the Senate has maintained, this measure is constitutional and it’s gratifying to know that the Oklahoma Supreme Court agrees. With the decision finalized, we now know the full extent of the revenue picture that needs to be addressed during a potential special session. The Senate will continue to work closely with the Governor and the House to finalize a plan to make up the $215 million in revenue lost in an earlier court decision.”

Fallin, McCall, Schulz comment on Cigarette Tax ruling

State leaders are starting to weigh in on the Oklahoma Supreme Court striking down the Cigarette Tax Smoking Cessation Fee. First up, the three members of state government who pushed the unconstitutional tax and were named in the lawsuit: Governor Mary Fallin, House Speaker Charles McCall, and Senate Pro Tem Mike Schulz.

Governor Mary Fallin Statement on the Oklahoma Supreme Court 

Striking Down Smoking Cessation Fee

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today issued the following statement in response to the Oklahoma Supreme Court striking down a smoking cessation fee approved this past legislative session:

 “I am disappointed to hear the Supreme Court struck down the smoking cessation fee, but I certainly respect the justices’ authority. I will be discussing with legislative leaders from both parties the need to address the $215 million shortfall this will create for the Department of Human Services, the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, the three agencies that received the bulk of the money that was to be generated by the cessation fee.

“These agencies and the people they serve cannot sustain the kind of cuts that will occur if we do not find a solution. My belief is we will have to come into special session to address this issue.”

House Speaker McCall Releases Statement after Court Ruling

OKLAHOMA CITY – House Speaker Charles McCall issued the following statement today regarding the Oklahoma Supreme Court's decision on Senate Bill 845.

"The Court has made their ruling and now it is up to the Governor and legislative leaders to agree on the best course of action moving forward.

"It is important to remember that the reason our budget has been suffering is because Oklahoma families and businesses have been struggling.  State revenues are a reflection of the people of our
state.  When our citizens have less money in their pockets to spend the state will realize less revenues.  I am a firm believer that government must live within its means.

"The tobacco fee for health care was passed in an effort to avoid significant budget cuts. After House Democrats refused time and again to support increased revenue measures, the fee was our only opportunity to balance the budget without deeper cuts. The minority party decided to play games with the budget, and now that opportunity has passed.

"I look forward to working with the Governor and the Senate to overcome this latest challenge."

Senate Pro Tem comments on Supreme Court ruling

Statement from Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz on Thursday’s Oklahoma Supreme Court ruling regarding the cigarette fee.

“While I disagree, I appreciate the Oklahoma Supreme Court’s quick ruling allowing the governor and the Legislature to immediately address the matter. There are several options available to us, and Senate leadership will continue to work with the governor’s office and House on deciding the best move forward.” – Pro Tem Mike Schulz, R-Altus

Oklahoma Senate Pro Tem comments on 2017 session

Sen. Pro Tempore Mike Schulz (R-Altus)

Oklahoma Senate Pro Tem comments on 2017 session

Says REAL ID, energy jobs policy wins during challenging budget year

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz commented on the 2017 session, saying great policy bookended a session dominated by a $1 billion budget shortfall.

“The Oklahoma Senate worked this session with the goal of ensuring the policies we enacted had long-term vision and set Oklahoma on the path to success now and years down the line. Despite a session that was dominated by the $1 billion shortfall, the Senate was able to enact important policies that will help grow our economy, create jobs and generate wealth, and yield new revenues for the state budget. The Energy Jobs Act of 2017 will help kick start oil and gas drilling, allowing the industry to help lead Oklahoma’s economic recovery. And getting Oklahoma in compliance with the federal REAL ID law ensures Oklahomans can maintain access to military bases to support our service men and women and board domestic flights with state issued ID,” said Schulz, R-Altus.

“The budget process was difficult this year. The Oklahoma Senate showed its willingness to compromise – passing a revenue bill that would have meant $514 million in new, recurring revenue for the state. But without compromise from others in budget negotiations, we couldn’t reach a deal and moved forward. Initially, 18 – 20 percent cuts were feared at the outset of the year. But the budgets of common education, the Department of Corrections, the Department of Human Services, the Oklahoma Health Care Authority, and the Department of Public Safety were kept whole while other agency cuts average less than five percent. Like most budgets passed by the Legislature, the FY’18 budget is not a perfect bill but it is an incredible accomplishment considering the Legislature had to deal with a budget hole of $1 billion and some refused to compromise.”

“This was a challenging session, but I’m proud of every member of the Oklahoma Senate for their dedication to our state and willingness to put our state above partisan politics. I’m proud to lead this chamber and want to thank each senator for their service to Oklahoma.”

Below is a list of some of the 2017 legislative accomplishments of the Oklahoma Senate:

BUDGET REFORMS:

• HB 2298 (Schulz):  accelerates the sunset date of the zero-emissions tax credit for wind energy to July 1, 2017, saving the state millions of dollars in future budget years.
• HB 2343 (David):  expands parameters for which the Oklahoma Tax Commission can target entities for noncompliance with certain sales tax laws. The measure is expected to generate $17 million in new revenue.
• SB 170 (Thompson):  eliminates the automatic income tax cut trigger, preserving lawmakers’ ability to pursue income tax cuts at a future date.
• HB 2311 (Schulz):  commission to conduct independent performance audits of top 20 appropriated state agencies in order to identify ways in which tax dollars can be used more efficiently and services delivered more effectively.
• HB 2344 (David): reduces the maximum for the Oklahoma Film Enhancement Rebate Program by $1 million.
• HB 2348 (David): “decouples” the standard deduction on state tax returns from federal deductions. The measure is estimated to raise $4 million currently, and prevent millions in an anticipated shortfall if the federal government changes the federal standard deduction. 
• HB 1427 (Leewright):  authorizes the creation of a dedicated division within the Oklahoma Tax Commission to focus solely on out-of-state vendors who may not be in compliance with Oklahoma tax code.

 ECONOMY:  A MORE PROSPEROUS OKLAHOMA

• SB 867 (Schulz):  Energy Jobs Act of 2017 allows horizontal drilling in all rock formations, while maintaining protections for other producers. The bill is estimated to generate millions for state and local governments, and foster the creation of thousands of oil and gas jobs. 
• HB 1845 (Schulz): brings Oklahoma into compliance with the federal REAL ID law ensuring Oklahomans can use their state-issued licenses to gain entry to federal buildings and military installations and to board commercial flights.
• SB 147 (Schulz): allows concentrated feeding animal operations (CAFO) to be located within a town if the municipality's governing body executes a written waiver of the setback for the particular CAFO, ensuring CAFO’s can continue operations while allowing municipalities to hold them accountable.
• SB 120 (David):  extends the successful aerospace engineers tax credit.
• SB 211 (Bice):  allows Sunday alcohol sales if approved by county voters.
• SB 174 (Bice): allows spouses of liquor retail store owners to own separate stores.
• SB 593 (Schulz): Protects property rights, puts Oklahoma in line with the other 49 states in regards to private airstrips, and allows FAA to make the determination of setbacks to keep the area safe for air travel.
• HB 2186 (Holt) (pending): allows movie theatres to serve alcohol provided they receive the appropriate permits.

EDUCATION:  INVESTING IN FUTURE GENERATIONS

• SB 514 (Stanislawski):  creates task force to study ways to reduce administrative costs and improve financial stability of school districts. Another effort to ensure more dollars make it into the classroom to support students and teachers.
• SB 15 (Bice):  directs the OSDE and State Regents for Higher Education to implement a targeted teacher recruiting program.
• SB 84 (Bergstrom):  extends the probationary period for a student who cannot pass the third-grade reading test to the 2022-2023 school year.
• SB 244 (Stanislawski):  requires virtual charter schools to track attendance.
• SB 301 (Griffin):  exempts children in out-of-home placements with DHS from the requirement to attend a public school regarding the Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarship program.
• SB 445 (Newhouse):  Oklahoma Equal Opportunity Education Scholarship Act tax credits.
• SB 529 (Smalley): increases the family income limit for eligibility under the Oklahoma’s Promise program and expands the tuition scholarship to include more CareerTech programs.
• HB 1693 (Stanislawski):  puts into place a new framework and basic components for a new A-F school accountability system, ensuring Oklahoma is compliant with the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
• HB 1578 (Stanislawski):  creates the School Finance Review Commission which will study all matters related to school finance in an effort to provide understanding and accountability in school finance.

PUBLIC SAFETY:  A SAFER OKLAHOMA

• SB 603 (Treat): requires the Department of Corrections to administer a risk and needs assessment for each prisoner. The agency must develop a plan of action based on said assessment. (pending approval by governor)
• SB 604 (Treat) requires the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training to include personal safety planning necessary at the pretrial stages of a potential criminal case.
• SB 52 (Fry): requires drivers to physically turn over their driver's license on demand from a peace officer.
• SB 90 (McCortney):   requires the sheriff or a CLEET-certified deputy sheriff to accompany a reserve force deputy sheriff unless said deputy sheriff received 240 hours of training. Requires them to complete said training in 6 months.
• SB 252 (Griffin): allows victims impact panel programs to have multiple presenters.
• SB 273 (Smalley): extends forcible sodomy laws dealing with public employees to include subcontractors and their employees.
• SB 342 (Holt): creates a task force to examine costs and fees assessed on persons interacting with the criminal justice process.
• SB 786 (Shaw) reduces charges associated with burglary if no person is present in the home.
• SB 38 (Thompson):  increases the Forensic Science Improvement Assessment fee from $5 to $10 to support the upkeep of state forensic lab equipment.
• SB 303 (Smalley) authorizes the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to submit fingerprints to the FBI Rap Back System.

A HEALTHIER OKLAHOMA

• SB 741 (Standridge): subject to the availability of funds, directs Oklahoma Health Care Authority to develop and administer a program to encourage participants in the Medicaid program to use primary care services in lieu of emergency room visits in order to drive down health care costs. 
• SB 765 (Yen): prohibits minors from utilizing tanning beds.
• SB 773 (David):  directs the OHCA to initiate a request for proposal for care coordination models for children 0-18 years of age.
• SB 828 (Griffin): creates the Nursing Facility Supplemental Payment Program Revolving Fund under the OHCA which will be used to make supplemental payments of Medicaid and administrative expenses.

PROTECTING CHILDREN AND SUPPORTING FAMILIES

• HB 1703 (Treat):  “Choosing Childbirth Act," which establishes a program to promote, incentivize, and provide support for crisis pregnancy centers.
• SB 34 (David): strengthens anti-trafficking laws by stating "lack of knowledge of the age of the (trafficking) victim" shall not constitute a defense to human trafficking of a minor.
• SB 217 (Griffin):  requires a sex offender who is given a suspended sentence to report to local law enforcement and the DOC parole office in their district.
• SB 717 (Griffin): broadens scope of the Child Care Restricted Registry to include people with a substantiated finding of child abuse.
• SB 723 (Griffin): broadens the scope of background checks for those applying to be child care providers.
• SB 726 (Griffin): subjects physicians engaging in telemedicine to the same standards in person healthcare experts are expected to adhere to.
• SB 748 (Griffin): allows DHS to create a pilot program that focuses on improving socioeconomic outcomes for children in state custody.
• SB 30 (Griffin):  requires DHS to publicly post information regarding pregnancy help centers contingent on funding being appropriated specifically for this program.
• HB 1894 (Sykes): helps protect vulnerable patients from being denied life-preserving care by creating a hierarchy of individuals who can make health decisions for someone that is consistently unconscious, incompetent or otherwise mentally or physically incapable of communicating.
• HB 1468 (Holt): modified the statute of limitations on criminal charges so that minors can now charge the perpetrator until their own 45th birthday.
• HB 1470 (Holt): modifies the statute of limitation on civil suits regarding sexual assault so that minors can now charge the perpetrator until their own 45th birthday.

SUPPORTING VETERANS AND MILITARY FAMILIES

• SB 35 (David): allows active military members and those who are in the Reserves or National Guard who are 21 years of age or older to carry a handgun without a handgun license.  Military members’ extensive training with weapons makes the requirement of having a gun license unnecessary.
• SB 227 (Simpson): increases service members’ financial and contractual rights by allowing members in the Armed Services or National Guard to cancel services like cell phone contracts, utilities, and health club memberships without penalty when mobilized or deployed.
• SB 233 (Simpson): adds provision stating that hourly employees shall not miss out on the first 240 hours of their pay when called to active service.
• SB 543 (Simpson): directs ODVA to establish a state cemetery for veterans addressing a national shortage of space for veterans’ cemeteries and providing a way to honor veterans with a dignified final resting place.
• SB 730 (Simpson): strikes the requirement for veterans’ centers to implement non-smoking measures by January, 2018.

GENERAL POLICY AND REFORMS

• SB 145 (Fields): allows presidential electors to be chosen at a party convention, but not necessarily a statewide convention. Changes the petition requirements to file for an independent bid of the Presidency to include the number of signatures required to form a party.
• SB 148 (Fields): states that Oklahomans who renew their license must be provided with voter registration services as required by the National Voter Registration Act. Changes of address on the license shall change the address on the registration.
• SB 153 (Fields):  allows state parks to spend monies collected from entrance or day-use charges at state parks for general improvement of the park.
• SB 287 (Griffin): directs the Oklahoma Corporation Commission and Department of Environmental Quality to obtain authorization from the federal Environmental Protection Agency to administer all programs regulating oil and gas discharges into the waters of this state.
• SB 360 (Holt): directs state Election Board to develop a system to allow voters to electronically change information on voter registration.

Will Friday be Taxapalooza?

Facing a shortfall of $878M, legislators have just a few days left to figure out how to deal with it. Friday, May 19th, is the final day that the Oklahoma Legislature can hear and pass any new "revenue raising" (i.e. tax hiking) legislation without going into a special session. Constitutionally, tax increases can not be introduced or heard in the final five days of session.

Gov. Mary Fallin has pushed for up to $2.6B in tax increases all session long, beginning with a $1.7B sales tax expansion. Apart from a handful of conservatives (mainly in the House), both Republicans and Democrats have had their own tax-increase proposals, but none have made it past the 75% affirmative vote threshold yet. That hurdle means that even if every Republican votes for a tax increase, some Democrat votes will be needed.

Republican legislative leadership met with Gov. Fallin and Democrat legislative leadership (that is, until House Minority Leader Inman left for a gubernatorial campaign caucus press conference) to try and hammer out a deal. We'll see what they end up putting forward during the day Friday.

At the beginning of each term, the new leadership (in Oklahoma City and in Washington, D.C.) talks a big game about openness, transparency, and allowing the public 48-72 hours to view important legislation... but when push comes to shove, budget bills like this get voted on before the ink dries from the printer, before members get to read the measure, and before the public is even aware of that vote.

The process needs to change.

Oklahoma Senate Republicans pass budget plan

Senate President Pro Tem Mike Schulz and the Senate Republican Caucus
unveiled their budget plan Monday afternoon at the state Capitol.

Oklahoma Senate Republicans approve responsible state budget plan

The Oklahoma Senate on Monday approved a budget plan that responsibly addresses the FY ‘18 shortfall, holds education agencies, the Department of Corrections, and the Department of Human Services harmless, and minimizes cuts to other state agencies.

“The Senate has negotiated patiently all-session long, but it’s time for the budget gimmicks to end,” said President Pro Tem Mike Schulz, R-Altus. “We were elected to lead and guide this state in a responsible manner, and that is precisely what the Senate budget does. Like we’ve said all along, the solution to this year’s budget will come via a combination of cuts to agencies, new revenues, and structural budget reforms and that’s what is included in the Senate budget. The budget reforms approved by the Senate also will put our state on more solid financial footing in the future and lets us end our work on time and avoid a costly special session.”

“The time for gamesmanship is over. We cannot sit by and continue to wait on unfulfilled schemes to materialize. The Senate budget plan is a tough, yet responsible way to land the plane on the runway and move our state forward,” said Senate Majority Leader, Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City.

“This is a responsible budget plan that addresses this year’s huge shortfalls, but also contains new revenues and progress on budget reforms that will begin the process of dealing with the chronic structural deficits in our budget,” said Senate Appropriations Chair Kim David, R-Porter.

The Senate budget plan includes $510 million in new revenue including:

• $239 million through reforms to “off-the-top” transportation funds, includes $125 million from increasing tax on gasoline and diesel by $0.06 per gallon;
• $215 million from increasing the cigarette tax $1.50 per pack;
• $43 million by eliminating oil and gas gross production tax rebates;
• $16 million by eliminating manufacturing sales tax exemption for the wind energy.

The Senate budget also includes $69 million from revenue bills already signed by the governor.

The FY ‘18 budget shortfall stands at approximately $878 million. The state also has financial obligations including the Pinnacle Plan, debt service, and agency supplementals that bring the total deficit closer to approximately $1 billion.

The Senate budget plan includes the FY ‘18 certified revenue ($6,029,537,421) and when all combined, the Senate budget fills $869 million of the approximately $1 billion budget deficit. The remaining deficit would be made up by keeping cuts to state agencies at under five percent.

HB 2360, which contains the Senate budget plan, now returns to the House for approval of Senate amendments.

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My comments

I'm not sure how this fits in with the state Constitution requiring revenue-raising legislation to originate in the State House. Additionally, how is this not logrolling?

The measure passed 36-9, with all six Democrats voting against along with three Republicans: Josh Brecheen (R-Coalgate), Nathan Dahm (R-Broken Arrow), and Anthony Sykes (R-Moore)