Budget Briefing: Delayed Federal Aid for Fires Puzzles Oklahoma Officials

State Officials Puzzled at Delayed Answer to Request for Federal Aid for Fire Damage – “The head of the Department of Emergency Management is puzzled as to why the federal government has yet to reach a decision on the state’s request for individual assistance after fires caused widespread damage. ‘I am a little bit clueless as to why it is taking so long,’ Albert Ashwood, who has been director of the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management since 1997, said Tuesday.” Tulsa World

Two Oklahoma National Lawmakers Address Road and Bridge Group on Transportation Bill – “At a luncheon focused on infrastructure, U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe and Rep. James Lankford said the transportation bill passed in June will mean streamlined processes and more local control for Oklahoma.” NewsOK.com

Romney Raises Record $2.2 Million from Oklahoma Residents – “Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney has raised more than $2 million in campaign contributions from Oklahomans, breaking the record for the state set by fellow Republican John McCain in 2008.” Tulsa World