Statements from Senate Democrats on GOP education proposal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Democratic Leader Kay Floyd
Capitol: (405) 521-5610
Kay.Floyd@oksenate.gov 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Democrats released the following comments on the GOP education funding proposal announced Monday.

“Tying education funding to an unpopular voucher scheme is not the solution Oklahoma families are looking for. Our kids need individualized attention from their teachers, guaranteed breakfast and lunch, and support when they are going through hard times. This proposal does not meet those needs,” said Senate Democratic Leader Kay Floyd, D-Oklahoma City.

“It is important to remember that we are talking about $600 million over three years that will not serve 95% of Oklahoma students. This voucher scheme is a tax shelter for individuals who can already afford private school tuition. We know the Tax Commission is not equipped to manage this program and that Oklahoma tax dollars will be misused and abused with no repercussions,” said Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City.

“This proposal continues the supermajority’s false narrative that increased funding for public school students must be linked to a voucher scheme. Oklahoma families, even those that attend private schools, are not asking for this arrangement. Linking the two together makes it clear that vouchers do not have the support they need on their own, so leadership is holding public school funding hostage to get them over the line,” said Sen. Jo Anna Dossett, D-Tulsa.

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