Leaders of both chambers of the state Legislature today announced a bipartisan agreement that outlines a framework for the state’s budget for the next fiscal year. The agreement now allows subcommittees of the General Conference Committee on Appropriations to move forward in working out the details of a final budget.

“This shows what both parties can accomplish when we work in the best interests of Oklahoma’s citizens,” said House Speaker Todd Hiett (R-Kellyville). “I’m proud that work on both sides of the aisle moves us toward a fiscally-responsible approach. In particular, I want to commend the work of House Appropriations Chair Chris Benge and Vice Chair Jim Newport in working on the details of this plan.”

“Today’s announcement shows the importance of keeping the lines of communication open. We had a number of opportunities to break off negotiations over the last few weeks, but neither side ever gave up. We kept talking and we have reached a very workable compromise—a good starting point for the next round of negotiations,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Morgan (D-Stillwater).

Morgan echoed Speaker Hiett’s praise for the negotiators, singling out Senate Appropriations Chairman Johnnie Crutchfield.

“This budget framework agreement will keep government essentials operating,” said Rep. Benge. “It invests in education and in vital services, while also committing to permanent tax relief.”

“We’re pleased that this agreement spells out a significant plan to build up funds for roads and bridges to $170 million over five years,” said Rep. Newport.

Crutchfield said he is looking forward to the next phase of budget talks as the sub-committees, under the leadership of the chairpersons from both houses, work out the details of each agency’s budget.

“We still have our differences. We haven’t agreed on every dollar amount in every agency. That’s the job of the sub-committees, but we have shown them what can be accomplished when both sides are willing to talk and both sides are willing listen,” Crutchfield said.

The agreement spells out specific dollar amounts for allocations for each subcommittee of the General Conference Committee on Appropriations – the joint legislative body that will hammer out spending details for state agencies and services.

Highlights of the budget agreement include:

- A record funding level for education.

- Ensuring permanent guaranteed tax relief for Oklahomans –$58 million for FY ‘06.

- Dollars safeguarded to provide a multi-year buildup of $170 million to fund road and bridge maintenance and construction across the state without raising taxes. Voters will also consider a “lockbox” provision to permanently secure the funds.

- Purchasing life insurance for Oklahoma National Guard members - $1.85 million.

- Funds for investments in communities that may be impacted by possible military base closures - $1 million.

- $8 million for state drug courts.

- Funds for agricultural & public health research - $1.8 million

- $3.4 million for an Oklahoma Highway Patrol academy.

- Assistance for developmentally disabled Oklahomans - $2.5 million increase.

During the GCCA process, lawmakers will act on more than 170 bills. Eighty-five bills out of the 170 total will address the total amount of dollars that each state agency receives. A separate bill is required for each agency that details how dollars will be spent.

For more information contact:
Senate Communications Office- (405) 521-5774