For Immediate Release: April 4, 2003

Audio Clip

Senator Mike Morgan

Budget Agreement Gives Lawmakers Morale Boost Going Into
Final Weeks Of Session

When the legislative session hits the halfway point, it is not unusual for lawmakers to feel discouraged because of budget disagreements. According to Senate Appropriations Chairman Mike Morgan, things are a bit different this year.

“Usually we’re negotiating down to the wire on appropriations issues. Members can get very frustrated, feeling like we’re not getting the job done. Of course we always do, even though some of the major agreements don’t fall into place until the final days. But this has been a unique year for all of us,” explained Senator Morgan, D-Stillwater.

With the state facing the biggest budget shortfall in history, public schools were being projected to take an unprecedented financial hit. But this week, legislative leaders of both parties, along with Governor Brad Henry, announced they had reached an agreement on the biggest part of the state budget: a $1.95 billion appropriation for common education for the 2004 fiscal year, compared to the estimated $1.87 billion appropriation for the current budget year.

“I think just about everyone senses the change that’s taken place. There’s a very positive attitude about the way things are going and how we are all working together. It’s a pretty amazing thing to be a part of,” said Senator Morgan.

Senator Morgan said there are several people he credits with helping reach the education agreement that may set the tone for the remaining nine weeks of the session.

“We’ve got to give credit to Governor Henry for setting the tone with his continued and sincere calls for bipartisan cooperation in this time of financial crisis. Senate President Pro Tempore Cal Hobson made that possible because of his leadership style; he made it easier for people to let down their guard and really work on finding solutions,” commented Morgan.

Senator Morgan also credited Senate Republican Leader James A. Williamson for his role in bringing everyone to the table.

“I have to say there has been as little partisan bickering this year as I have ever seen. Senator Williamson deserves credit for that. He’s been very, very helpful in making this a reality,” said Morgan.

While there are other budget agreements that have yet to be struck, Senator Morgan is hopeful the cooperative spirit he saw at work on the education budget will continue in the weeks ahead.

“Of course everyone has differences of opinion on these matters. But we all realize the gravity of the budget picture and the need to work together as never before. It has been remarkable to see that happening,” said Morgan.


For more information, contact:
Senate Communications Division - (405) 521-5774