This week we have convened for both the second and third special sessions of the 58th Legislature. The second is to consider American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) appropriations and the third is to consider inflation relief. The House passed several inflation relief bills in the 2022 regular session, and we are committed to continue delivering inflation relief for the people and businesses of Oklahoma. I know firsthand the concerns and impact that inflation has had on the residents of the 37th District. Business owners, neighbors, friends and family are feeling the weight of burdensome regulations, and we know you need help quickly. With that in mind, the House has advanced a number of bills aimed at addressing inflation concerns this week.House Bills 1008XXX and 1009XXX contain language relating to decreases in the personal income tax rate. Currently, the top marginal personal income tax rate is 4.75 percent. Both of these measures could reduce personal income tax rates across all tax brackets by .25%.House Bills 1011XXX, 1012XXX, 1013XXX, 1014XXX and 1015XXX all contain language relating to a reduction, elimination or tax credit for the state portion of the sales tax on groceries. These measures contain various solutions including an increase in the sales tax relief credit, a two year moratorium on the state portion of the grocery sales tax and a permanent elimination of the state portion of the grocery tax. Cities and counties will still be able to levy their portion of these taxes should any of these bills pass, which protects revenue that is vital to our municipalities.These bills are conversation starters and not all will pass. They give the Legislature options to discuss in order to address comprehensive inflation relief that can help the most Oklahomans in the most efficient way. I spoke with Governor Stitt about these solutions at the rodeo in Ponca City, and it is my hope that we can all come to a consensus on behalf of the people.That’s it for this week, but thank you again for allowing me to serve you, it’s a privilege. If I can help you with anything, feel free to call my Capitol office at (405) 557-7355 or email me at ken. luttrell@okhouse.gov.50/50 Raffle Ticket available at the chamber office or from any chamber director, $1.00 each or 6/$5.00. The funds raised are to help support the cost of this year’s highly anticipated FIREWORKS DISPLAY starting at Dusk,
