Leaders from both chambers and parties in the Legislature provided a hint of optimism during a forum held by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. They suggested a compromise may be within reach to solve our state's revenue crisis.
I and many of my education colleagues, at the University of Central Oklahoma and across the state, hope they are right. Legislators must pass the budget and reform package offered in Step Up Oklahoma.
This Grass Tops/Grass Roots movement represents a watershed moment in our public policy and political history. Those in business, industry, and nonprofits across the state are to be commended for rallying to this extraordinary compromise.
UCO and public higher education do not have a direct “stake” in this compromise proposal. We will not receive additional state funding if it is passed. But as good citizens, we enthusiastically support this compromise because we daily experience the frustrations of serious revenue shortages.
My higher education colleagues across Oklahoma see the same current environment.
Read more at the Oklahoman here.