Well - It's here. The final week in which the House can hear revenue raising measures. The official estimate is that we need $878 million dollars for a flat budget, but in reality we need closer to $1.1 billion.
Last Monday, there was a potential deal on the table between the House Democrats and Republicans, but apparently, the Senate said they would not go for it. So, it was back to the drawing board. So far, the discussions have surrounded an increase in the cigarette tax, gasoline tax, caps on itemized deductions, increase in the gross production tax for oil, and various other caps on exemptions. I have heard from many constituents regarding these various proposals, and I appreciate your input.
Governor Fallin has said that she will veto any budget that contains spending cuts in it. It will be tough to get enough recurring revenue to have a flat budget, but I have faith in my colleagues at the capitol. We must do all we can to fund core governmental services; otherwise, we jeopardize our roads and bridges, education system, and criminal justice system.
As a result, I encourage all of you to reach out to your legislators and tell them how you feel about the budget.
