2023 Issues Slate
INITIATE
CTAG will initiate legislation to name the new Gilcrease Turnpike Bridge the “Guy Berry Memorial Bridge” in honor of the late Guy Berry. Mr. Berry previously served as the Oklahoma Department of Transportation Commissioner and was also a member of the Board of the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority. He was a longtime advocate for the need for the Gilcrease Expressway and the bridge over the Arkansas River.
CTAG will co-initiate with Oklahoma Municipal League legislation which will modify the Scrap Metal Dealers Act. Oklahoma, like many states, is suffering from the theft of a large number of catalytic converters. Many are then sold to metal recycling businesses, making it difficult to investigate these crimes and prosecute. The statute would be modified such that any item on the restricted list would not be eligible for immediate cash payment. These payments would be made after a 15-day waiting period and by check after confirming proof of identity. The exemption for mechanics would remain.
SUPPORT
CTAG will support changes to modernize and allow updated virtual meeting participation options in the Open Meetings Act.
MONITOR
CTAG will monitor bills for any impact on local governments. We expect to monitor numerous issues and update the slate throughout session. The following topics are especially of note: medical/recreational marijuana, firearms legislation and public safety, taxation (including further discussion of the elimination of the grocery sales tax), public improvement districts, and legislation relating to changes with tax increment financing.
OPPOSE
CTAG will monitor and oppose legislation that enacts mandates for local governments without a corresponding revenue source, increases fees on local governments purely to fund the operation of state government, and legislation that is contrary to 11 O.S. §17-301, known as the Municipal Fiscal Impact Act. The Act requires a fiscal impact statement for any bill or resolution which is determined by the chair of the legislative committee to which the bill or resolution is assigned to have a potential direct adverse fiscal impact on municipalities in this state, among other requirements.
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