Americans For Prosperity, which lays claim to being the Sooner State’s largest grassroots advocate for economic freedom, marked another week of policy victories.
On the heels of Governor Fallin signing HB 1749 last week, providing for significant public sector payroll deduction reforms, the organization applauds House committee votes this week that will strengthen our state’s economic future.
“With committee approval of SB 782 and SB 676 this week, we are on the march to shaping a brighter future for Oklahoma families, small businesses and students,” a spokesperson said.
Senate Bill 782, which cleared the House Common Education Committee on Monday, will offer more education opportunities through the statewide expansion of charter schools. The bill authored by Rep. Lee Denney and Sen. Clark Jolley cleared the committee with broad support by a vote of 12 to 2.
“AFP has been working diligently over the past several years to see SB 782 become a reality. We are thrilled to have helped develop a consensus and build support on such an important education opportunity. Rep. Denney and Sen. Jolley have worked diligently to see the expansion of charter school become a reality and they have our sincere thanks and appreciation.”
Senate Bill 676, authored by Sen. Greg Treat and Rep. Jon Echols empowers the Governor, Attorney General and State Legislature to push back against federal overreach by the EPA. The bill cleared the House Environmental Law committee by a vote of 6 to 2.
“It’s high time we are given better tools to push back against Washington, DC. Governor Fallin has helped to lead the charge against regulatory burdens among her peers in the National Governors Association and we are excited to see local efforts to do the same. Sen. Treat, Rep. Echols and Attorney General Pruitt have our thanks and praise for their leadership on EPA push back as well.”
Both SB 782 and SB 676 now proceed to the Oklahoma House for consideration before the next legislative deadline on April 23, 2015.
