House PACs File Finance Reports

From The Tulsa World's Capitol Bureau ~ House Democrats said Wednesday that they raised more than $120,000 at a campaign event featuring Gov. Brad Henry.

But the Republican State House Committee, which works to elect GOP members, has raised considerably more than the Democrats.

About $62,000 was donated at the door of the Democrat fundraiser Tuesday at the Skirvin Hotel in Oklahoma City, said Rep. Bill Nations, D-Norman, who is the financial officer for House Democrats' fundraising efforts. An additional $62,000 was pledged leading up to the event, he said.

The GOP stated in its report due Tuesday to the state Ethics Commission that it had $237,589 on hand as of March 31. At a fundraiser this month, about $140,000 more was donated, said Rep. Trebor Worthen, R-Oklahoma City.

In all, the Republicans have about $380,000 on hand.

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Lindley Challenges Immigration Law

State Rep. Al Lindley, (pictured) D-Oklahoma City, is leading the charge to challenge the state's new immigration law. Four other lawmakers have joined his effort.

Lindley wants a legal opinion on whether the state's new immigration law is enforceable.

Lindley argues that the law requires employers to participate in a program to confirm the citizenship status of workers, yet Congress has chosen to make participation voluntary.

Attorney General Drew Edmondson will assign the letter to an assistant for review, Edmondson's spokesman, Charlie Price, said. The review could take weeks. Portions of the law go into effect on November 1st.

Joining Lindley are Reps. Bill Nations, D-Norman; Al McAffrey, D-Oklahoma City; Wallace Collins, D-Norman; and Scott BigHorse, D-Pawhuska.

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Alternative Energy Sources Bill Passes House

Oklahomans wishing to utilize alternative energy sources in their home may soon get tax benefits under a bill that passed the House today. House Bill 1387, by Reps. Randy Terrill and Bill Nations, would provide significant tax credits to consumers who install solar or wind energy equipment at their homes. The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.

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