For Immediate Release: January 12, 2010

SENATE REPUBLICANS UNVEIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, ENERGY AND GOVERNMENT REFORM SECTION OF 2010 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA
First in Multi-Part Roll-out of Agenda Goals for 2010

Oklahoma Senate Republicans today released the first section of their 2010 Legislative agenda, focusing on their goals for Economic Development, Energy, and Government Reform.

Under the leadership of Senate President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee (R-OKC) and Majority Floor Leader Todd Lamb (R-Edmond), who also chaired the Senate Republican Agenda Committee, Senate Republicans have constructed an ambitious legislative road map to build upon the successes of their first session in the majority in 2009.

“The Republican majorities in the Senate and House were able to produce unprecedented success for Oklahoma’s citizens last session, with comprehensive lawsuit reform, ensuring quality medical care for rural Oklahomans through the OSU Medical Center, education reform, public safety improvements, and many other positive developments,” said Lamb. “We believe, even in this challenging economic climate, that more progress can be made, and we’re proud of the legislative agenda we’re starting to roll out today.”

“Our caucus is united in its desire to bring a more efficient and productive state government to the people of Oklahoma, and I’m very proud of the legislative goals we’re introducing today and in the coming days,” said Pro Tem Coffee. “Oklahoma businesses and families will certainly benefit from the agenda we are laying out in 2010.”

Republican goals for Economic Development, Energy and Government Reform include bills that will:

- Create an Office of Accountability and Innovation to eliminate waste in state government;
- Develop comprehensive workers’ compensation reform;
- Promote job growth through lower taxes and less regulation;
- Limit growth of government and reduce the tax burden of Oklahoma families through an ad valorem tax cap;
- Expand the back-to-school sales tax holiday to include school supplies:
- Reduce government spending and oppose new taxes;
- Advocate Oklahoma energy resources;
- Ensure protection of Oklahoma’s water, one of our most valuable resources.

Republican Senators will file bills advancing each of the above goals, and will work with members in the Senate and House to pass these measures on to the Governor for his signature.

For more information contact:
Sen. Coffee: 405-521-5636