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October 25, 2012

SQ 766 would impose cuts

The Norman Transcript

NORMAN — Editor, The Transcript:

Oklahomans should demand the truth from the coalition supporting State Question 766. Unfortunately, this coalition has decided to attack Oklahoma judges rather than address the devastating cuts SQ 766 would impose on public schools, career technology centers and county government.

Although each person is entitled to their own opinions, none of us is entitled to our own facts. The truth is that “activist judges” did not create a new tax. The Oklahoma Supreme Court enforced a provision of our state’s constitution that was approved by voters more than 40 years ago.

The Oklahoma Tax Commission estimates that passage of SQ 766 would result in an immediate loss of $50 million in tax revenue to schools, career technology centers and county government — if the revenue is not otherwise replaced by the state. SQ 766 would not stop a new tax on centrally assessed entities like AT&T. the truth is SQ 766 would provide a tax break to corporations on the backs of students and county government.

What about the new taxes imposed on Oklahoma families as a result of the 2009 decision of the Oklahoma Supreme Court? The truth is that if SQ 766 fails, nothing will change in the State of Oklahoma. Senate Bill 1436, passed on the final day of the session, preserves the current tax system in the event SQ 766 fails.

The truth is a “no” vote on SQ 766 would result in a better solution for all Oklahomans.

Steven Crawford

Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration executive director

Ryan Owens

United Suburban Schools Association executive director

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