Pro Tem Bingman statement on Board of Equalization certified revenue figures

Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman issued the following statement Tuesday in response to the certification of revenue figures by the Oklahoma Board of Equalization. The Board of Equalization’s certified revenue figures indicate approximately $6.5 billion in revenue available for the state budget in fiscal year 2013.

“Today’s certification of revenue figures by the Board of Equalization is further evidence that Oklahoma’s economy is becoming stronger with each passing month and on the path to recovery from our national recession. Yet, the loss of one-time funding applied in the previous fiscal year ensures a budget shortfall estimated to exceed $100 million.

“Frankly, our best case scenario will be a flat state budget after absorbing the loss of one-time funding sources. We should celebrate positive indicators of recovery while proceeding with thoughtfulness and caution in the coming fiscal year."