State Budget

[MichaelC]

From KTUL

quote:Oklahoma City (AP) - This time last year, lawmakers had reached an historic 6 billion dollar budget that included the largest tax cut in state history.

Monday, the Oklahoma House voted on two bills and a resolution, and none involved the budget.

With three weeks remaining, budget negotiations are at a standstill as the Republican-led House demands major tax cuts and the Democrat-dominated Senate seeks education spending.

House Speaker Todd Hiett's plan would reduce Oklahoma's top income tax rate from 6-point-2-5 percent to 4-point-9 percent and reduce state revenue by 480 (m) million dollars.

Hiett says the main issue is the Senate wants smaller tax relief than the House.

Last year, lawmakers approved a tax-cut bill that included a 108 (m) million dollar income tax cut.

Ardmore state Senator Johnnie Crutchfield says lawmakers should fund programs and services for Oklahomans before considering new tax cuts.