The Oklahoma Legislature is headed for another special session this fall, in which Gov. Kevin Stitt is asking for significant changes to the state’s tax system.
This will be the second special session of the legislature in 2023 following the official end of the regular session in the spring.
"We have one job — to serve and protect all four million Oklahomans," Stitt said in a statement. "I'm calling on the Legislature to fight for Oklahomans and demand fairness and transparency in our tax system and our budget process. I am also calling on the Legislature to put Oklahoma on a path to zero income tax and give Oklahomans a much-needed tax break. If not now, when?"
Stitt is asking for three things this go-around, including a tax cut that puts Oklahoma on a path toward zero state income taxes and a measure to increase budget transparency.
The final request is sure to cause more friction between his administration and tribal nations. Stitt wants a trigger law mandating if a state or federal court finds that because of an individual’s race, heritage, or political classification, that person doesn’t have to pay a state tax, then no Oklahoman will have to pay that tax.
Stitt’s executive order calls for the legislature to convene on Oct. 3.
StateImpact Oklahoma is a partnership of Oklahoma’s public radio stations which relies on contributions from readers and listeners to fulfill its mission of public service to Oklahoma and beyond. Donate online.
Copyright 2023 KGOU. To see more, visit KGOU.