Efforts to pull our country and our state out of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression could result in significant changes in the way they conduct business and will also present some new opportunities, officials with the Ardmore Chamber of Commerce said.
The Chamber has a long history of promoting a sound business climate that allows Oklahoma companies to compete with other businesses around the world. Potential reductions in federal and state services pose a threat to programs — some that are critical to basic government services and some that could be reduced or eliminated. Meanwhile, pressure to increase revenues may result in increased costs to businesses and individuals. The Chamber will represent the interests of sound economic policy that allows businesses to compete globally, to hire more workers and to grow in Oklahoma.
This legislative session will center on the state’s budget woes. Key issues for Ardmore, like the conversion of the Higher Education Center to a branch of a university will likely not be considered. However, the Chamber is committed to this project and will jump at any opportunity to advance this proposal.
Key Issues include:
Common Education ( A Priority)
• Enhance academic achievement by incorporating higher standards in the state
• Extend the school year and hours to the regional average
• Implement career awareness and career pathways programs
• Maintain funding for education or at least minimize the reduction
Economic Development
• Maintain key incentives like the 5-year tax abatement for new and expanding businesses
• Oppose attempts to weaken Tax Increment Financing
• Temporary suspension of some tax credit programs may be necessary. If so, carefully review those incentives and suspend, rather than eliminate, such programs that encourage business investment.
Energy
• Oil and gas will continue to be the nation’s primary energy resource for the foreseeable future. Protection of exploration and production incentives is essential.
• Renewable energy and alternative energy resources can help our economy grow. The establishment of a renewal energy portfolio goal of 20 percent is recommended.
• Bioenergy and biofuels research is critical and funding cuts should be minimized. Competitive incentives for cellulosebased fuels are necessary and will generate longterm benefits.
Workers’ Compensation Reform
• A fundamental restructuring of our entire workers’ compensation system is needed in order to place our system and business costs in line with neighboring states.
Transportation Funding
• Transportation is critical to Oklahoma’s future. The transportation bond program passed in 2008 needs to be maintained as promised. Oklahoma cannot afford to allow roads and bridges to deteriorate further.
• Explore innovative solutions to needed transportation improvements, including public-private partnerships.
Water
• Oppose any significant changes in water law prior to completion of the update of the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan.
Health Care
• Oppose the creation of new government-run health coverage options that compete unfairly with the private sector. Our goal is to assure affordable, equitable and quality health care.
