By Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt
Senate Democrats began our first Capitol Conversations series last spring, and we’re continuing those dialogues this fall, joined by House Democrats. We had an education-focused Capitol Conversation last month, and it was a tremendous success. More than 50 Oklahomans from across the state, with a variety of political backgrounds, came to the Capitol to share their priorities and concerns about public education and the schools that are the heartbeat of our communities. It was a civil, meaningful exchange of ideas, and I sincerely want to thank every single person who took the time to participate.
The next conversation will focus on Oklahoma’s budget. When we’re talking about the state budget, we’re talking about tax dollars that we all pay, and the funding choices legislators make on the public’s behalf. Our question is, how do you think those public dollars should be invested? The budget may sound like a tedious, complicated topic to have a conversation about, but it is the one thing we do that ultimately impacts every single person in this state. An example, top of mind for many, is the cuts to mental health services across the state – that comes down to our state budget. Do you think mental health services should be prioritized? Roads and bridges? What about funding for public education, Careertech or higher education?
All those things are decided by the legislature each year, and creating a balanced budget is one of our most important jobs, so we want to get your input early about what you think is missing and what you think is important. You do not have to be a budget expert to tell us your story about your family and how the budget impacts them. Again, people of all political experiences are welcome.
This budget-focused Capitol Conversation takes place Tuesday, October 7. It’s this time of the year that state agencies are submitting their budget requests ahead of the next legislative session. Come this spring when the Senate budget subcommittees begin meeting to work on bills, there will be no option for public comment. But you have that opportunity to share your views on October 7.
We’ll start off with some brief presentations to give an overview of the budget process, and then we’ll open it up for your comments. Those who want to speak will have up to three minutes on a mic to share their stories, concerns, and priorities with members of both the Senate and House Democratic Caucuses.
If your schedule allows, I hope you’ll make plans to attend this upcoming Capitol Conversation on the budget on Tuesday, October 7 at 5:30 p.m. in room 535 of the state Capitol. Of course, I also welcome your feedback any time via phone or email to my office. We look forward to hearing from people from across the state. Your ideas matter, and the more Oklahomans get involved in shaping our shared vision, the better those ideas can be reflected in the budget. Onward!
For more information, contact: Sen. Julia Kirt at 405-521-5636 or [email protected]
