State Senator Randy Brogdon, Chairman of the Transportation Appropriations sub-committee, said it was time to look at reforming the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA). After the OTA approved toll hikes of 16 percent, Brogdon called for restricting the ability of the OTA to raise tolls--especially at a time when the economy and Oklahoma’s citizens are already suffering.
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OKLAHOMA CITY – The state’s third annual sales tax holiday will begin August 7, giving families an opportunity to save money on children’s back-to-school clothing while encouraging people to support Oklahoma businesses. State Sen. Don Barrington, R-Lawton, was the principal author of the measure creating Oklahoma’s sales tax holiday and encourages residents to take advantage of the event.

State Sen. Dan Newberry said he was opposed to federal proposals in healthcare reform that could increase the number of abortions in this country funded for by taxpayers.

Legislation to exempt Oklahoma soldiers from state income tax on federal pay has been signed into law. Senate Bill 881, authored by Sen. Steve Russell, R-Oklahoma City, and Rep. Gary Banz, R-Midwest City, was signed by Gov. Brad Henry on Tuesday. The tax exemption will apply to all troops, whether they are National Guard, Reserve or active.

“We have obviously known this would be a tough budget year with needed revenues not coming in. Just like families and businesses thoughout Oklahoma, your state government will continue to be conscientious and responsible with taxpayer dollars.”

Sen. Jonathan Nichols on Monday commended Gov. Brad Henry for taking a strong stand to protect Oklahoma families by signing legislation that establishes stronger penalties for domestic abuse and possession of child pornography.

Over the course of the next three days more than 80 paintings belonging to the State Senate Art Collection will be removed from the state Capitol. The artwork is being transported to the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, where it will be displayed from July through October.

Dr. Duane King, Executive Director of the Gilcrease Museum, said the collection is an extraordinary reflection of the state’s culture.

As Texas families this week celebrate the signing of legislation expanding the age of mandatory insurance coverage for children with autism, Sen. Jay Paul Gumm said Oklahoma families struggling to care for autistic children deserve better from their state Legislature.

Texas’ new law expands the age of mandatory insurance coverage for children with autism from the time of diagnosis to their 10th birthday. Gumm noted that Texas’ legislation was approved by a majority Republican Legislature and signed by a Republican governor.

Senate President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee announced the approval of thirty-four interim studies and their committee assignments. The studies will be conducted between now and the beginning of the next legislative session in February, 2010.

Nineteen Senators requested interim studies in a variety of areas of concern to them and their constituents. Some studies are a result of legislation filed in 2009 for which further study was required or requested before moving the legislation forward.

The State Legislature honored the life and work of Oklahoma artist Willard Stone last week. Sen. Mary Easley and Rep. Ben Sherrer authored Senate Concurrent Resolution 11 recognizing Stone's artistic ability and many accomplishments.

"Willard Stone was a gifted man whose pride in his Native American heritage can be seen in his wonderful works of art," said Easley, D-Wagoner. "I applaud the Gilcrease Museum for their fitting tribute to his extraordinary artwork; and I hope that citizens will take the time to go see the works of one of our state's most gifted artists." read more.