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

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The Oklahoma Senate Democratic caucus issued a statement Thursday through their leader, Sen. John Sparks, D-Norman, commenting on the Supreme Court’s ruling striking down the “cigarette fee” and declaring it an unconstitutional tax:

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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 relating to Oklahoma's vehicle sales tax:
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President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz, R-Altus, announced approval of interim studies requested by members of the Oklahoma Senate. A total of 44 interim study requests were approved.
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OKLAHOMA CITY Sen. Dan Newberry, R-Tulsa, is resigning his seat to pursue a promotion in his professional career. Newberrys resignation will be effective January 31, 2018. The governor must set a date for a special election to replace Newberry.

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“In western Oklahoma, going to work or taking your goods to market often means a lot of windshield time in a car or truck. That means we understand and appreciate even more the value of a safe and reliable transportation system. Secretary Ridley has done a tremendous job leading our state’s effort to make improve transportation system. I’ve worked with Secretary Ridley in a variety of capacities, as a staffer for both U.S. Representative Frank Lucas and U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe and as a state senator. He’s always been helpful and reliable partner in the effort to improve Oklahoma’s roads. read more.

Seeks to raise awareness of special day in black history
Sen. Anastasia Pittman joined citizens of Clearview, one of Oklahoma’s historical all-black towns, last week to celebrate their Founder’s Day and Juneteenth. Juneteenth is the oldest-known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the U.S.
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The Senate gave unanimous final approval Tuesday to legislation modifying Oklahoma’s Promise, the state-sponsored tuition program. Sen. Jason Smalley is the author of Senate Bill 529, which he said makes necessary changes to the program to protect the integrity and stability of the program.

“This bill tackles a number of areas concerning Oklahoma’s Promise to ensure that those students who truly need financial assistance can get it while also being inclusive of those degrees that take longer than the average program,” said Smalley, R-Stroud.
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Bill anticipated to generate significant revenue from increased oil & gas drilling

An Oklahoma Senate committee on Tuesday gave approval to a major jobs bill from Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz that is anticipated to spur a significant increase in oil and gas drilling in the state of Oklahoma, creating thousands of new energy jobs and boosting state and local revenues.
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