AFP-OK: Fallin Veto Drags Out Budget Dispute

Fallin Veto Drags Out Budget Dispute

AFP-OK disappointed in state’s leadership failures, tax increases still not the answer

Oklahoma City, OK – Americans for Prosperity-Oklahoma (AFP-OK) is disappointed in the surprise vetoes issued by Governor Mary Fallin on Friday. Her vetoes will bring the legislature back in to what has already been a costly special session. AFP-OK is a strong advocate of good stewardship of taxpayer dollars and hopes lawmakers push to resolve the threat of a continued budget crisis quickly and without raising taxes on hard working Oklahoma families and businesses.

Over the past several months, a steadfast group of legislators have repeatedly rejected the Governor’s desire to raise taxes on lower and middle-class families and AFP-OK continues to applaud that effort.

AFP-OK state director, John Tidwell released the following statement:

“I think Will Rogers was right when he said, ‘when you find yourself in a hole – quit digging.’ This largest tax increase in state history only digs that hole deeper.  Governor Fallin’s decision to veto large parts of a balanced budget deal and intention to drag out a special session is a raw deal for taxpayers. The governor should have signed the budget deal and accepted the tough budget cuts which would have balanced the budget.”

“Her insistence on raising taxes on Oklahoma families is just wrong,” Tidwell continued. “What’s worse, the Governor seems totally obstinate to truly cutting wasteful spending or reforms of any kind. Oklahomans should support those lawmakers who worked in a bi-partisan way to balance the budget and ask them to continue to stand strong against costly tax increases that will hurt families and small businesses.”