“This is both an honor and a tremendous responsibility, one that I do not take lightly,” Thompson said.
“Ultimately, the state budget impacts every single person in our state. When we talk about appropriations, we’re talking about the funds that support our schools, roads and bridges, public safety, health, mental health and services for some of our most vulnerable citizens. But unlike the federal government, Oklahoma’s constitution mandates that we must write and approve a balanced budget.”
Last year, Oklahoma’s revenues were impacted by low energy prices and by the COVID-19 pandemic—factors that continue to affect revenue collections in the state. The Legislature also faces the additional challenge of funding Medicaid expansion, which was approved by voters last June. The latest projections are that the expansion will cost the state an additional $165 million to $247 million in Fiscal Year 2022, which begins next July 1.
Thompson said Oklahoma’s Board of Equalization will meet on Dec. 18 to make its initial certification of how much money will be available to appropriate in the coming budget year.
“We face significant challenges, but this is the job we signed on to do on behalf of our fellow Oklahomans. We’re tasked with being the best stewards possible of our state resources, and I’m confident in the talent, abilities and dedication of my fellow members,” Thompson said.
Sen. Roger Thompson can be reached at 405-521-5588 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
