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.

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.

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:

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

Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Schulz on Monday released the Senate Republicans' plan to address the $215 million hole in the Fiscal Year 2018 state budget.

“This plan not only addresses the immediate need of $215 million for critical health care agencies that was struck down in court, but it also provides recurring revenue streams to help us address the long-term stability of the budget and prevent further cuts to core government services,” said Schulz, R-Altus.

The Oklahoma Senate Democratic caucus issued a statement today through their leader, Sen. John Sparks, D-Norman, commenting on the special session of the Oklahoma Legislature scheduled to begin on Monday, September 25, 2017:

The Senate Democrats have spent the last several weeks meeting with those involved in the upcoming special session of the legislature as well as those affected by the decisions made in this special session.

OKLAHOMA CITY - Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tem Mike Schulz on Thursday commented on the ongoing work to reach a budget agreement in advance of next week's special session.

“President David L. Boren’s distinguished tenure at the University of Oklahoma is an extension of his lifetime of selfless, tireless service to the State of Oklahoma. He will be the standard by which all future leaders of our great state and of this university will be measured.