Service Oklahoma made the news again with their made-up values for taxation purposes. A boat was purchased for an amount less than one half the value Service Oklahoma deemed this boat was worth. After negotiations, this amount was reduced some, but at the end, this individual was taxed at a value 40% more than they paid. How can this be? Why can we not just be taxed on the amount we pay? This will be another piece of legislation I file this session.
I also plan to address the process where Service Oklahoma denies any credit for “trade-ins” when computing excise tax. Currently, a person is taxed for the full purchase price paid without any credit for a trade-in, which already was taxed. In my opinion, this is double taxation. Hopefully, I can correct this issue.
Judge Frizzell ruled against poultry integrators, for those who haven’t been following the news lately. Many fear this will drive many poultry growers out of Oklahoma and into other states that are less regulated. This case has been pending for 20 years. In the past 20 years, we have made great strides to reduce the effect of poultry litter and clean up our waterways, but sometimes these efforts seem to no avail. I believe one of the worst parts to come out of this case is the constant public bickering between some of our top elected officials. We all need to be pulling together to resolve this complicated issue.
On a final note, this Thursday, Jan. 1, many of our state parks will be offering free admission to encourage everyone to get outdoors and start the new year on a refreshing note.
As always, I’m thankful to the constituents of House District 17 for allowing me to serve. If I can help you in any way, 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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