We hit the ground running with the start of the legislative session last week. We began by hearing the State of the State address from Governor Stitt. I appreciated his comments and look forward to working with him as we review legislation and craft our state budget. I especially appreciate the governor’s focus on issues related to education. His plans include the Innovation School Fund, a reading initiative to get students reading on grade level, expanding concurrent enrollment and addressing teacher pay. These programs will make improvements in our schools and offer more opportunities for students across the state.
While the governor shared his executive budget last week, which gives insight into his priorities, the Oklahoma Constitution is clear that it is the responsibility of the Legislature to write and pass a balanced budget each year. That work actually began long before the start of the session and during recent weeks, we heard from each of appropriated state agencies who presented their budget requests for the new fiscal year. Later this week, the Board of Equalization will give its final certification as to how much will be available to appropriate. In December, their initial certification was approximately $13 billion, but as energy prices have been lower than the original estimates were based on, that final figure could change somewhat.
I know that inflation has taken a toll on many Oklahoma families, especially senior citizens who are on a fixed income. If this is your current situation, something you may find beneficial is the Senior Valuation Freeze. If you are at least 65 years old, and meet the income requirements, you may be eligible for this exemption. Under this program, you can freeze the appraised value of your property and your property taxes would then be based on this value, even if the value of your home increases. Your property taxes may still increase due to other factors, but this freeze can lead to significant savings over time. I encourage you to contact your County Assessor’s Office for more information. This year’s deadline to apply is March 15th.
Lastly, I am very excited to welcome the high school students from District 26 that will be participating in the Senate Page Program this session. During their week of service, they will have a firsthand look at the legislative process as they assist Senators and staff, tour the capitol, meet Governor Stitt, and attend committee meetings and floor sessions. I would also like to encourage everyone to come and visit our beautiful state Capitol. This building is full of history, but also beautiful artwork and monuments.
We are all in this together as we work to pass laws that will improve the lives of Oklahomans. If there’s anything I can do to help you, please reach out. You can contact me by email at Darcy.Jech@oksenate.gov or by phone at 405-521-5545.