Things seem to be rolling along rather smoothly this summer, though not a whole lot of activity at the Capitol. I am awaiting the speaker of the House to announce which interim study requests will actually move forward into hearings this fall. I have requested one to look at why Service Oklahoma uses two separate values for taxation purposes on vehicles. When you purchase a vehicle, you pay a “sales tax” and an “excise tax;” both are computed independently of each other. Sales tax is based on the price you pay, while excise tax is based on the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) value rather than what you pay, with no regard for condition of the vehicle. My goal is to bring both these values closer to fair market price. I should know shortly whether this will be heard or not.

I have heard from some veterans about a local chain store not wanting to honor their sales tax exception cards. We were able to reach out to the store’s upper management and determine that they do indeed have a process to honor these cards, but a specific process must be followed. If you are a veteran experiencing any of this, please reach out to my office. We will be glad to offer assistance.

Finally, “Oklahoma Auction School” came to town last week and held a class for individuals aspiring to become auctioneers. While classes were held at Eastern Oklahoma State College, what is noteworthy is the four charity auctions they held in conjunction with the school. They raised money for a rural church in the southern part of the county, a local school fundraiser to benefit baseball and softball, a small rural community to purchase fireworks, and the grand finale was a fundraiser for our local Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) organization. In total, I believe they raised nearly $50,000 in charitable funds. These guys have the unique ability to separate you from your money and make you enjoy giving. Thank you and congratulations on a job well done.

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

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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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