Statement from Senate Democratic Leader on FY ’21 budget vote

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City, released the following statement on behalf of the Senate Democratic Caucus after Tuesday’s vote on the Fiscal Year 2021 budget:

“Today the Oklahoma Senate passed a state budget for Fiscal Year 2021 which cuts funding by approximately 4% compared to the current year. Preparing the budget is a challenging task under normal circumstances but especially this year in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Oklahomans are hurting, our economy is struggling, and state revenues have taken a major hit. We commend Senate Appropriations Chair Roger Thompson for his hard work on this budget and his efforts to limit the extent of the cuts.

“Senate Democrats understand tough choices must be made; however, we are unable to support a budget that cuts funding for core state services at a time when they are most needed. This budget includes significant cuts to public schools, higher education, human services, public health, mental health, and public safety. Prioritizing sustainable investments in these areas is critical to the long term strength of Oklahoma’s economy. Without the will to consider revenue options, our state budget will continue to have a structural deficit and the Legislature will be forced to plug budget holes year after year. Senate Democrats will continue to advocate for a more balanced approach.”

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