State Representative Rick West (R-Heavener)
By Rep. Rick West
I plan to listen to an interim study on Oct. 5 about state park funding and infrastructure needs. Any changes could affect Wister State Park in our House district.
Back in 2016, when we had a state budget deficit, the Legislature capped funding for state parks. Now that we have about $4 billion in state savings and our budget has doubled, we should take the caps off and put some money toward improvements. I’ve tried to get this done, but have not yet had success. I’m hoping this study will shed some light on this important topic.
The request for the study said it will examine long-term funding strategies for Oklahoma’s state park system, including comparisons to funding models used in other states. The study will evaluate deferred maintenance, infrastructure modernization, operational and staffing needs, and the level of recurring investment necessary to sustain and improve Oklahoma’s state parks. The study also will explore sustainable funding options, as well as the potential impacts of privatization, leasing and alternative operational models on recreation, public access and state revenues.
Another study about state parks has been approved. It promises to examine federal partnerships in recreation at our state parks. There’s no additional information at this time, but I’m planning to watch this one as well. It’s scheduled for Oct. 14.
Last week, I thanked the governor for his request to pause enforcement of all taxes, regulations and fines levied on the use of red-dyed diesel in farm vehicles.
Red dye is allowed in diesel in vehicles that are tagged for farm use. It shows the diesel is not taxable. Untagged vehicles found with the dye can face stiff fines and penalties. The governor requested that the Oklahoma Tax Commission, the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety and the Oklahoma Corporation Commission pause any surveillance or fines and penalties for 120 days. This would grant some relief to our state’s agricultural producers during a time when the cost of diesel is extremely high.
The governor pointed out in his action that Oklahoma feeds the world, and yet the state’s farmers and ranchers are facing unprecedented challenges as they head into harvest season. The governor said that as their costs increase, so do prices at the grocery store. He said the state should ease burdens where it can in order to provide relieve for the agricultural industry and for Americans trying to feed their families.
I appreciate the governor’s attention to this matter and hope it helps our farmers and ranchers.
Remember to listen to my Capitol update on the radio at 7:35 a.m. every Thursday on KPRV.
As always, if I can help you with anything, please call my Capitol office at (405) 557-7413 or email me at rick.west@okhouse.gov.
Rick West serves District 3 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes part of LeFlore County.
Get Local News!
