Senator David receives perfect score for business advocacy

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Kim David was recognized this week for her support of pro-business legislation this session by the Research Institute for Economic Development (RIED), a non-partisan organization that grades Oklahoma’s legislators on their votes on key economic development issues. 

            This year’s RIED Report considered votes for 19 bills including House Bills 1416, 2480, 2509, 2562, 2580, 2630, 2711, 2903, 2956, 2974 and 3365 as well as Senate Bills 1023, 1218, 1246, 1799, 1905, 1948, 2029 and 2128.

            David was one of only 14 legislators out of 149 who got a perfect score on this year’s RIED Report.

            “It’s important that we support pro-business legislation that helps attract new business to our state creating more jobs while also protecting the companies and jobs we already have,” said David.  “We must do all we can to continually strengthen our business and economic development climate to ensure this is the best place for citizens to live, work, raise a family and retire.”

            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 2014 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 David 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 2014 session, 88 of the 149 legislative members (59%) received passing scores of 70 or higher including 31 Senate members (65%) and 57 House members (56%). 

             “As I have said many times during my association with RIED, it is vital the state legislature be proactive in creating a business environment in Oklahoma that ensures economic development and quality employment opportunities for our citizens,” said Greg Love, RIED board chairman. “From all accounts, Senate and House members continued to do just that this session at the state Capitol.”

            The complete RIED Report is available at www.riedreport.com.

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.