Sen. District 8’s Press Releases

OKLAHOMA CITY Senate leadership on Wednesday were cautiously optimistic about next years budget after a state board certified an estimated $612 million in new funding for the upcoming budget year.

However, Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat and Senate Appropriations Chairman Roger Thompson both said lawmakers and the public should not set unattainable expectations for next year.

Sen. Roger Thompson said he is continually tracking economic factors that impact the state budget as he prepares for the upcoming legislative session.  It was announced in June that Thompson, R-Okemah, will serve as Senate Appropriations Chair in the 57th Legislature, filling one of the most crucial roles in state government.

Thompson said in recent years, all members of the Senate have been appointed to the full Appropriations Committee.  This year, there will be just 16 members, including the chair and vice chair.

State Sen. Roger Thompson has been given the Guardian of Free Enterprise Award from the State Chamber of Commerce for his legislative initiatives and leadership in the Oklahoma State Senate. The awards ceremony was held December 4 in Oklahoma City. Chamber President and CEO Fred Morgan applauded Thompson’s service and achievements in the Legislature.