OFRG Announces 2009 Policy Agenda

Oklahomans for Responsible Government (OFRG) has announced its policy agenda for 2009, with issues ranging from opposition to State Question 744 to support for term limits for state-wide elected officials. Five key initiatives were highlighted for the upcoming legislative session.

The organization has requested a legislative referendum be filed that, if approved, would limit all secondary state-wide elected officials to two consecutive terms for each office.

In addition, OFRG plans to oppose and educate voters on the adverse effects of State Question 744, known as the Oklahoma Education Association's HOPE initiative.

"Last session we were busy introducing our organization and working hard to pass term limits," said Brian Downs, Executive Director of OFRG. "This year, we have expanded resources and credibility that will enable us to hold legislators more accountable and ensure taxpayers are getting the best return for their investment in our state."

Here are the particulars of the OFRG agenda: Term Limits for state-wide elected officials, File legislative referendum that would create term limits for all secondary state-wide elected officials (question would be on the 2010 general election ballot; policy would call for each official to only serve two consecutive terms for each office.).

Initiative Petition reform: Work to expand the number of days to collect signatures and lower the required percentage of collected signatures based on previous election. Develop a process to make sure petitions meet legal definitions prior to collecting signatures and organizing issue advocacy campaigns.

Education Transparency: Advance legislation that allows parents to track student progress as well as teacher and school performance. Require all Oklahoma school districts to publish online operating budgets and check registers for taxpayer review.

Opposing SQ 744: Develop coalition that will educate voters about SQ 744 and the adverse effects it would have on Oklahoma families and businesses.

Tax Reform: Work with legislative leaders to prioritize spending and provide tax relief to Oklahoma families through reductions in the state income tax and personal property tax.

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