Morgan Applauds Suspension of Gas Tax in Georgia; Renews Call for Henry to Expand Special Session

Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Morgan applauded the efforts of Georgia Governor Sonny Purdue today to “relieve some of the financial burden” being experienced by residents of his state by suspending the tax on gasoline there through September.

And Morgan renewed his call for Governor Brad Henry to act so that the Oklahoma Legislature could enact the Senate Democrats proposal to suspend the gas tax in Oklahoma for a three-month period.

“Oklahomans need emergency relief from the high price of gasoline and they need it now. I’m asking Governor Henry again today to expand the call of the current special session to include suspension of motor fuel taxes in Oklahoma,” Morgan said.

The Stillwater Democrat said Purdue, a Republican, is probably just the first of many governors who will step forward in the next few days to offer emergency relief from high gas prices in their states.

“The idea we unveiled yesterday in Oklahoma City is gaining momentum nationwide. Market forces are causing gasoline prices to skyrocket and I believe other states will move to do all they can do to ease the pain their citizens feel every time they fill up their tanks,” Morgan said.

The Senate Leader said his office has already contacted the Georgia Governor’s office to obtain the specific details of Georgia’s plan, including the cost and the immediate relief they expect at the gas pump.
Morgan said that Senate staff has conducted exhaustive research into the legal issues surrounding the suspension of the gasoline tax in Oklahoma and is in the process of drafting the legislation.

“As soon as they are finished with the bill, we will forward copies to Governor Henry, Speaker Hiett and other legislative leaders,” Morgan said. “This is not just a ‘rough draft,’ as has been suggested. As soon as Governor Henry acts, the Legislature can return to the Capitol and four days later that bill could be on the governor’s desk.”