Henry Blamed For 'Budget Impasse'

Legislative leaders in the Oklahoma Senate and House of Representatives said Tuesday that budget negotiations have reached an impasse.

The leaders claim that Governor Brad Henry has attempted to "create a false choice between tax relief and other budget priorities," even as Henry still refuses to publicly (or privately, in discussions with legislative leaders) submit a complete balanced budget proposal.

"Governor Henry has continued to play leak and spin games in the media, but he's not willing to lay out a specific budget plan, even in our private discussions with him," said Speaker Lance Cargill (R-Harrah). "It's clear he's not serious about working with the Legislature. We're open to discussing all options and budget priorities, but we are not interested in writing blank checks. And we are not going to stand by while the governor attempts to kill needed tax relief for working families. If we're forced into a special session, Governor Henry will be to blame."

Senate Co-President Pro Tempore Glenn Coffee (R-Oklahoma City) said, "Budget negotiations have broken down because this governor refuses to reach a compromise with the bipartisan legislative leadership. His 'my-way-or-the-highway' approach is putting the state on a path toward a government shutdown," Coffee said. "The governor's behavior is bewildering and, quite frankly, a little childish. The talk at the Capitol is Governor Henry's behavior would qualify him for his own proposed kindergarten-for-three-year-olds program."

The legislative leaders said they remain firmly committed to investments in state services and priorities -- including a $600 pay increase for teachers that will complete the multi-year commitment to raise teacher salaries.

"We have an obligation to be good stewards of the taxpayers' money, and the governor seems intent on pushing vague spending priorities," said Rep. Chris Benge (R-Tulsa), chairman of the House Appropriations and Budget Committee. "As we look at extra money the state may have, we must make sure to keep our commitment to tax relief and examine other investments in top priorities."

"The governor's ego is writing checks the state treasury can't cash. He keeps promising money to every special interest group and agency he meets with, knowing that there isn't enough money to meet his vague wish list of promises and still fund essential services," stated Senator Mike Johnson, R-Kingfisher, co-chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

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