Articles
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Economy
Would SQ 832 cost consumers more than the grocery tax repeal saved?
Customer savings from Oklahoma’s recent repeal of the state sales tax on groceries could be wiped out, nearly twice over, by the negative effects of SQ 832.Ray Carter | June 2, 2026
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Economy
Poor better off in Oklahoma than in high-minimum-wage states
As Oklahoma voters weigh State Question 832, a new analysis suggests that higher minimum-wage mandates do not necessarily translate into higher incomes for low-income workers.Ray Carter | June 2, 2026
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Economy
More than 100 Oklahoma lawmakers oppose SQ 832
More than 100 Oklahoma legislators, including House Speaker Kyle Hilbert and Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton, have signed a letter urging voters to reject State Question 832. The lawmakers warn that the proposal's automatic annual minimum-wage increases would lead to higher consumer costs, job losses, and financial strain for city and county governments.Ray Carter | June 1, 2026
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Economy
Enid leaders urge voters to reject SQ 832
The Greater Enid Chamber of Commerce has joined a growing coalition of business organizations opposing State Question 832. Chamber leaders warned the measure could create significant challenges for small businesses and rural employers.Ray Carter | June 1, 2026
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Education
Lawmakers put Oklahoma’s educational future on a better path
This year’s legislative session could mark a turning point for a public school system that has long ranked among the nation’s lowest performers.Jonathan Small | June 1, 2026
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Economy
With SQ 832, rural Oklahoma ‘has the most to lose’
State Treasurer Todd Russ, a longtime resident of western Oklahoma, says ever-increasing wage hikes will be especially harsh for rural communities.Ray Carter | May 28, 2026
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Education
State data show rising demand for Oklahoma school choice tax credits
Newly released Oklahoma Tax Commission data show continued growth in participation in the state’s Parental Choice Tax Credit program, including among homeless, financially disadvantaged, and welfare-recipient students.Ray Carter | May 28, 2026
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Economy
Experts warn SQ 832 will drive up already-high costs
State Question 832 would tie Oklahoma’s minimum wage to inflation and raise the base wage over time. Some experts warn that this will strain small businesses and lead to higher prices or reduced hiring.Ray Carter | May 27, 2026
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Law & Principles
OCPA files lawsuit to protect free speech, voters’ right to information
A federal lawsuit filed by the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs on behalf of a district judicial candidate contends that Oklahoma’s current laws and regulations unconstitutionally restrict what judicial contenders may say during campaigns, violating their First Amendment rights.Ray Carter | May 26, 2026
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Economy
SQ 832 means higher prices
State Question 832’s ripple effects would include higher prices for all, fewer job opportunities for many, and increased automation as businesses struggle to absorb soaring labor mandates.Jonathan Small | May 26, 2026