Bergstrom files special session bill to create a pathway to zero income tax

OKLAHOMA CITY- Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, has filed Senate Bill 1xxx for the upcoming special session. This legislation outlines a strategic pathway to gradually eliminate the Oklahoma state income tax while protecting state revenue. Gov. Kevin Stitt has called the state legislature into special session to cut taxes.

Bergstrom’s measure answers that call and offers a bold but reasonable pathway for easing the financial burden on hardworking Oklahomans while fostering a climate that promotes economic growth and job creation, particularly within the small business sector. The bill also sets up guidelines to protect state revenue and services.

“This bill is based on a careful review of Oklahoma’s economic history, including state government revenue and spending, over the last quarter century,” Bergstrom said. “SB1xxx is a comprehensive plan that paves the way for the gradual elimination of the state income tax, while also safeguarding the essential revenue required for public services.”

The initial tax cut will be a quarter percent, dropping the maximum rate to 4.5 percent.

“I was recently told by a gentleman that he has been trying to get his son to move to Oklahoma. He reminded his son that the cost of living was lower in our state, and the son agreed,” Bergstrom said. “But the son told his Dad that the state he lived in had no income tax and he just wasn’t going to move where the government takes almost five percent of what he earns.”

“I am committed to ensuring that the Oklahoma state income tax doesn’t hinder the hard work and innovation of individuals and businesses, and is not a reason for our children to move somewhere else,” Bergstrom said.

SB 1xxx can be considered when special session begins January 29, 2024.

-END-

For more information, contact: Sen. Micheal Bergstrom at 405-521-5561 or email Micheal.Bergstrom@oksenate.gov