SENATER RON SHARP RECEIVES HIGH SCORE FOR BUSINESS ADVOCACY

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Research Institute for Economic Development (RIED), a non-partisan organization and producer of the annual RIED Report, a grading system of Oklahoma legislators’ votes on key economic development issues, announced today that Senator Ron Sharp (R-Shawnee) recorded a score of 94 out of a possible 100 on the 2013 RIED Report. 

“I’m proud to support legislation that strengthens our state’s economy and businesses.  Whether they’re large or small, they all have a tremendous impact on local communities and the state overall.  It’s important that we continue to give them all the tools they need to prosper and grow,” said Sharp, R-Shawnee.  “While one missed vote prevented me from getting a perfect score of 100, it was well worth it as that vote occurred while I was in Shawnee assisting in recovery efforts from the May 19th tornado.”

Under the RIED evaluation system, legislators earn positive points when they support job creation and economic development issues. Points are deducted when they introduce or vote for legislation that negatively impacts Oklahoma’s business climate.  A score of 70 and above represents a passing grade while 69 and below represents a failing grade.  

“The 2013 legislative session continues a trend of support for economic development, business initiatives and job creation in Oklahoma,” said Susan Winchester, RIED president. “Legislative members such as Senator Sharp recognize the vital importance of creating a business environment that will attract new industry while providing growth opportunities and less regulation to our existing businesses.”

During the 2013 session, 99 of the 149 legislative members received passing scores of 70 or higher representing over two-thirds of the total membership, and making it one of the highest percentages of passing scores in the RIED Report’s 16-year history.

“As a member of the business community, I am always encouraged when Oklahoma’s legislature advances a pro-business agenda that translates into more and better jobs and creation of an economic climate that reaches beyond our borders,” said Greg Love, RIED board chairman.

The Research Institute for Economic Development was founded in 1997 and is a non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting economic growth through the evaluation of business, job and economic growth issues considered annually by the Oklahoma Legislature. RIED does not lobby issues or endorse candidates.