“Half and a Path.” These words resonated with me during Gov. Stitt’s State of the State address this past Monday. The reference is to lowering our state income tax by one-half percent this year and a path toward reaching zero at some point. I will always support reducing income taxes as long as we have safeguards in place to not shift the burden to property taxes as other states have done. Gov. Stitt also referenced the U.S. Supreme Court being willing to hear the St Isidore Catholic Charter School case. As I’ve stated before, I believe the fact they are willing to hear this case is a win.
“No regulatory authority over rate increases.” I was surprised at this answer from Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready when he was asked why the Insurance Department had never denied a rate increase requested by insurance companies. Commissioner Mulready stated that Oklahoma is a free market state with a total of 113 registered insurers with 40 to 50 actively writing policies. The belief is the market controls itself. Mulready’s parting advice was “shop around.”
Congratulations to Josh Hass on being appointed to the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission by Gov. Stitt – subject to Senate approval. I’m confident Josh will bring a common sense approach to issues facing this agency, and I’m confident he will do a fine job.
Lastly. I failed to wish one of my valued political consultants – Rose Ellison – a happy birthday this past Friday. If you see Rose, wish her a happy birthday for me.
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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