Rural Republican state senators Wednesday pledged their support for a proposed $150,000 state appropriation to provide vital assistance to increase the delivery of water to southwest Oklahoma’s Lugert-Altus Irrigation District.

Sen. Owen Laughlin, R-Woodward, the chairman of the Senate Republican Rural Caucus, said the appropriation to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board would be earmarked for vitally important projects to stretch water supplies in the region.

State Republican and Democrat leaders today announced a bipartisan health care reform plan, including a new system for prescription drugs assistance and model legislation to make health care more affordable using health savings accounts.

The Senate has paid tribute to State Treasurer Robert Butkin. The man praised for restoring trust and integrity to that office is stepping down to become Dean of the University of Tulsa School of Law next month. Senate Resolution 21, commending Butkin, was approved unanimously on Thursday.
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State Senators gave final approval Thursday morning to legislation that will provide a $250,000 life insurance policy for members of the Oklahoma National Guard and Air National Guard.

Senator Randy Bass, D-Lawton, said the measure now goes to the House where approval will send it to the desk of Governor Brad Henry.
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Senator Tom Adelson, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Social Services, called on GOP Speaker Todd Hiett and his Republican leadership team to allow an up-or-down vote on House Bill 1617.

“As lawmakers, we have a duty to help those that need it the most,” Adelson, (D-Tulsa) said. “It is quite evident House leaders are simply turning their backs on the thousands of uninsured in Oklahoma who depend on us to be their voice in the legislature.”

The State Senate will hear a resolution Friday recognizing the accomplishments and talent of Checotah-native Carrie Underwood who was named a finalist on the popular TV show, "American Idol" Wednesday night. She may be new to a lot of Americans, but she is not new to Senator Frank Shurden.
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“This legislation is an investment in Oklahoma’s future. Education is the key to unlocking the door of opportunity for our young people and we must do all we can to make achieving a college education affordable for all families. Senate Bill 448 will allow parents and grandparents to open that door and make a better tomorrow for our children.”

The full Senate has given final approval to a bill to encourage more parents to buckle up their children. Currently, the fine for failing to use proper child restraints is $10 and up to $15 in court costs. SB 799 would boost the fine.

“Under Senate Bill 799, the fine would be waived for a first offense and the court costs capped at $15 if the person shows proof that they’ve obtained the appropriate child safety seats. Subsequent offenses would carry a $50 fine and court costs,” explained Jolley, author of the measure.
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Lawmakers have raised new concerns about the effects of proposed tax cuts being considered in the Oklahoma Legislature following statements from the Speaker of the House. Sen. Jim Wilson, Rep. Debbie Blackburn and Rep. Joe Eddins disagree with recent comments from the Speaker who claimed that only a minority of the state is in opposition to the tax cuts and that the permanent tax cuts are the best way to meet pro-growth policy goals.
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Senator Tom Adelson called again today for Speaker Todd Hiett to allow an up or down vote on House Bill1617, the Hospital Quality and Access Fee, a $300 million investment in Oklahoma’s critically under-funded healthcare system.

Late Thursday evening, Federal Judge Claire Egan issued her final judgment and permanent injunction in the lawsuit against the state’s Medicaid program in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma. Judge Egan ordered that physicians providing services to children be reimbursed at a rate equal to the Medicare fee schedule.