We are deep into the budget process at the state Capitol with a series of public budget summits being held between House and Senate leadership and the governor.
Although frustrating at times, I'm pleased that budget leaders are all in the same room at the same time. This process tests those involved, but it's important everything be done openly. I've been able to be more involved in the process than ever this year, and I really enjoy the challenge and the opportunity that presents. I've gotten to voice my concerns and opinions to the major decision makers.
There were some slowdowns as leaders from each chamber and the governor expressed differing views on tax cuts. The House and governor believe we could cut income tax this year. The Senate president pro tem, however, has made it clear that aside from the state's portion of the grocery tax eliminated earlier this year, he is not interested in allowing his chamber to vote on further tax cuts.
With that off the table, budget leaders are focusing on going line by line through appropriations for each state agency. It's a laborious process, but for those interested in how taxpayer dollars get spent, it's worth the time to listen.
I want to commend the budget chairs from each chamber: Rep. Kevin Wallace, R-Wellston, and Sen. Chuck Hall, R-Perry, as well as the vice chairs and our fiscal staff. The House Pro Tem, Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, is also very involved.
This is hard work and long hours, but achieving a balanced budget that benefits Oklahomans is a worthwhile goal.
Also last week, I had a page serve in my office at the Capitol.
Heath Laubach, a junior at Mooreland High School, is the son of Robert and Shirley Laubach. Heath is a member of the National Honor Society and has been on the Superintendent's Honor Roll for the past four years and is on the Dean's Honorable Student list. He's a member of FFA and has already received a Washington Leadership Conference Scholarship. He's a three-time state runner-up in prepared public speaking and won third place in the FFA Greenhand Quiz. He's also a West Watkins Grant recipient.
Heath plans to attend Oklahoma State University to major in agribusiness with a pre-law option. He then hopes to go to the Texas A&M College of law to focus on either agricultural or corporate law. He hopes to one day represent Oklahoma farmers and ranchers and even one day to serve in the state Capitol.
It's always a treat for me to have pages in my office, and it was especially a pleasure to have a young man interested in one day representing his fellow Oklahomans.
As always, if I can help in any way, please do not hesitate to contact me. You may reach me by email at [email protected], or phone me at 405-557-7339. God bless you and the State of Oklahoma.
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