2017 special session stalls
Posted on: 10/4/17
Last week, the Oklahoma Legislature began the 2017 Extraordinary Session known as special session on Monday, Sept. 25. There were 197 bills filed for the 2017 special session with an “X” after the number. Contrast 197 with one bill filed in 2005 and 12 filed in the 2009 special sessions. On Wednesday, the special session was recessed to the call of the chair. Recessing means that committees can still meet and caucus meetings can also be held but the special session is not over. The special session is only over if the Legislature adjourns.
If revenue raising measures are to be adopted in this special session, then the Legislature must meet for an additional eight days. Recall that under State Question 640, revenue raising measures cannot be considered in the last five days of session and that includes a special session. There is no deadline for the ending of special session. OHA will keep you informed as the session moves along. OHA has urged its members in a call to action (
www.okoha.com/votervoice) to support
HB1099X, by
Rep. Casey,
Rep. Wallace,
Sen. Eddie Fields, and
Sen. David, which increases the cigarette tax by $1.50 per pack.
(Lynne White)