Challenge filed against repealing revenue increase

Posted on: 5/23/18


Decline to Sign 799 filed legal paperwork May 17 with the Oklahoma Supreme Court to challenge the veto referendum being circulated by Oklahoma Taxpayers Unite. This is the second challenge filed in opposition to the repeal of the revenue increases. In addition to the legal challenge, Decline to Sign 799 has been running a social media campaign that encourages people not to sign the veto referendum. For more information on Decline to Sign 799, click here.

The Decline to Sign 799 group includes: The Tulsa Classroom Teachers Association, Oklahoma’s Children, Our Future, Inc., the Oklahoma Education Association, the Oklahoma State School Boards Association, the Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration, the Organization of Rural Oklahoma Schools, the Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education, the United Suburban Schools Association and Oklahoma PTA.

Oklahoma Taxpayers Unite began an effort to gather 41,142 signatures of registered Oklahoma voters for seeking a vote of the people to repeal the tax increases passed by the Oklahoma Legislature in March. HB 1010xx raises $400 million and includes $1 per pack increase in cigarettes. The signatures must be submitted to the secretary of state by July 18.  
 
The Association of Professional Oklahoma Educators filed the first challenge asking the Oklahoma Supreme Court to throw out the veto referendum arguing the petition is unconstitutional and legally insufficient because it seeks to repeal a law necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health or safety pertaining to the support of Oklahoma public schools. A hearing on Professional Oklahoma Educators’ petition is set for June 11.

If the challenges are not successful and the required signatures are deemed legal, State Question 799 can be placed on the Nov. 6 ballot. However, there is some speculation that the issue could be on the Aug. 28 primary runoff ballot. The governor could also call a special election. (Lynne White)

Save the dates for OHA 2022 events

Posted on: 2/18/22


It’s a new year and a new lineup of important events for you and your staff. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to engage in advocacy, education and networking all year long. Mark your calendar now!

OHA Advocacy Day - Tuesday, April 5, Oklahoma History Center. Join us for our annual legislative day. We will begin with a member briefing at 3 p.m., followed by a legislative reception at 5 p.m. Watch for registration materials soon.

OHA-PAC Golf Tournament - Tuesday, June 21, Jimmie Austin Golf Club at OU, Norman. Time and details TBA.

OHA Health Care Leaders Forum - Tuesday, July 19 - Thursday, July 21, Shangri-La Resort, Grand Lake. Watch for registration soon!

OHA Connect 22 - Wednesday, Nov. 9 - Friday, Nov. 11, Oklahoma City Convention Center and Omni Hotel, downtown Oklahoma City. Plan now to attend OHA’s annual conference and exhibit hall. More details to come.

Details on these events and other upcoming education opportunities will be available on the OHA website.