Budget Briefing: Oklahoma Lawmakers and Political Leaders Condemn Federal Defense Cuts

Oklahoma Lawmakers, Gov. Mary Fallin Warn About Defense Cuts – “Oklahoma lawmakers and Gov. Mary Fallin spoke out Wednesday against the automatic federal budget cuts set to take effect in January, while major defense contractors said they would have to give their workers advance notice about possible layoffs because of the uncertainty.” NewsOK.com

Inhofe Decries Military Budget Cuts – “U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe and 1st District Congressman John Sullivan joined Wednesday’s assault on the Obama administration and the potential effect of pending budget sequestration on the Department of Defense.” Tulsa World

Property Tax “Cuts” Create Winners and Losers – “Two state questions related to property taxes will be on the November ballot … Both measures will be presented as tax cuts by their proponents. However, the real result may be a tax cut for some and a tax hike on others.” Oklahoma Policy Institute

Livestock Show Appropriation Offers Reason for Oklahoma Taxpayers to be Concerned About Budget-Writing Process – Editorial: “A $2 million appropriation for a youth livestock show whose chairman is also a major political donor is just the latest case suggesting lawmakers may be playing fast and loose with taxpayer dollars.” NewsOK.com