“FY 24 state revenue exceeds estimate.” I guess this is one headline I never tire of reading. Current projections are running at approximate 2.1% above estimate. Combined balances in the Revenue Stabilization Fund and the Constitutional Reserve (Rainy Day) Fund are currently above $2 billion. I believe we have to give Gov. Stitt and his vision for lower taxes to promote growth a lot of credit for these numbers. This solidifies the House of Representatives’ belief that now is the time to lower taxes for all Oklahomans. This process begins Aug. 29 with the elimination of the state’s portion of the grocery sales tax. Cities and some counties will still collect their portion, but the state’s share of 4.5% will be eliminated. I also believe it’s time to take a serious look at reducing our state income tax burden as well.
Meanwhile, plans for a hydroelectric plant on the Kiamichi River are back. I thought this idea had been scuttled several years ago due to local opposition, but it is back in the works. I attended a public hearing for the route to file comments last week in Talihina. There definitely was no shortage of opposition to this plan. I stand firm in my opposition to this project based upon several issues including how much water will be removed from the river and what the temperature of the water will be that makes it back to the river. My understanding is this electricity will go directly to North Texas to supply its grid with no benefit to Oklahoma electric users. I also believe there may be questions about ownership of the company promoting this plan. Hopefully this plan will be scuttled as well.
For those wishing to file a comment or complaint, go to this website: https://ferc.gov/OPP. It includes information on how to file and what to include. Make sure to include these docket numbers: p-14890-000, p-14890-003, p-14890-004, p-14890-005.
On a final note, congratulations to Brian Bobek being name by Gov. Stitt as the state’s Chief Operating Officer. I have worked with Brian Bobek on several issues in his time in the governor’s office, and I guess if I would describe him in one word it would be that I have always found him to be very “approachable” and looking forward to working with him in the future.
As always, thank You for allowing me to serve you. I can be reached at (405) 557-7381 or by email at jim.grego@okhouse.gov.
Jim Grego serves District 17 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Latimer County and part and Pittsburg County.
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