Appropriations Chairman Embarrassed By Behavior of Senate Minority

Statement by Senate Appropriations Chairman Johnnie Crutchfield

“It is irresponsible of our friends in the minority to stoop to fear tactics when discussing budget negotiations. Because they have never had to write a budget and don’t have a clear grasp on governing I am not surprised at all by their behavior. Sadly their irresponsible grandstanding does nothing to help the people of Oklahoma.
“If they are seriously concerned with the budget negotiating process and want to help all Oklahoma families, they need to convince their Republican counterparts in the House to say ‘yes’ to funding higher education at a level that stops double-digit tuition increases for our college students, and ‘yes’ to hard-working state employees that guard our prisons, keep our communities safe and keep child abusers away from Oklahoma children.
“Passing a standstill budget should be a last resort. To do so now would create unnecessary anxiety among Oklahomans who count on critical services in their everyday lives. We’re still working and we’re not ready to throw up our hands.
“We’re going to continue to work to craft a state budget that meets the needs of all Oklahomans.”

Note to editors: Senate President Pro Tempore Mike Morgan said Wednesday that, if House Speaker Todd Hiett will agree to a $130 million funding increase for higher education and a full-year, 5-percent pay raise for state employees, an agreement on framework for the state budget can be reached.