Senate Republicans will attempt to increase accountability in state government by creating a legislative budget office and will protect the state’s $2.9 billion investment in education as part of their 2019 legislative session, according to a press release by Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat and members of the GOP Caucus.

“Our agenda is simple and precise but reflects four important areas that will have tremendous long-term impact for Oklahoma,” said Treat, R-Oklahoma City. “We’ll have more budget transparency by creating a legislative watchdog to give lawmakers more information as we write the budget and measure the success of state programs. Education investment and reform are essential elements of our agenda too because we know they are key to our state reaching its full potential. Finally, advancing criminal justice reform by supporting diversion programs will impact many areas of our state in a positive way. With this agenda, we’re working toward helping Oklahoma achieve a better and brighter future.”

Treat said the Senate GOP agenda has a lot in common with 2019 goals so far indicated by Governor Kevin Stitt and leaders in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Majority Floor Leader Kim David, R-Porter, who led the GOP agenda working group during the interim session, said the streamlined agenda highlights important issues critical to the success of Oklahoma. David voted for the largest tax increase in state history last session.

Senator Roger Thompson, Senate appropriations committee chairman, said these priorities will be reflected in the Senate’s efforts during the budget negotiations.

The agenda is as follows:

  • Senate Republicans will establish a legislative budget office.
  • Senate Republicans will give the governor authority to put into place the right leaders at state agencies to turn Oklahoma around.
  • Senate Republicans will restore 5-day school weeks, providing for reasonable exemptions, to enhance student outcomes and repair Oklahoma’s national reputation.
  • Senate Republicans will further criminal justice reform.