For Immediate
Release: September 2, 2005
Senator Mike Morgan
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.”
For
more information contact:
Senate President
Pro Tem's Office - (405) 521-5605
