Budget & Taxes

New analysis of public school spending leaves out local spending -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Sep-2013

Tax take is down: OK general revenue collections drop 10 percent in August -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Sep-2013

Pat McGuigan on OETA’s Oklahoma Forum Sunday -

Billie Rodely

14-Sep-2013

State pension liabilities top $4 trillion -

Eric Boehm Watchdog.org

05-Sep-2013

State Treasurer Ken Miller reports second straight month of record-setting tax receipts -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Sep-2013

COMMENTARY: For Oklahoma, the good news is the bad news from Kansas was wrong -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Sep-2013

In testing results, more bad news for Oklahoma public education -

Patrick B. McGuigan

01-Sep-2013

Red Flag Analysis: OK Rogers State University, where defaults exceed graduations, gets entrepreneurial grant from the feds -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Aug-2013

Cato Institute gives F- to state public education spending transparency -

Patrick B. McGuigan

27-Aug-2013

Records show Higher Ed Board sweetens pot for employees -

Patrick B. McGuigan

27-Aug-2013

Dueling Denunciations: Rainy Day cash, Nursing Home standards -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Aug-2013

Oklahoma Higher Regents’ pay hike assailed -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Aug-2013

Finance Secretary announces $2.7 million boost to Rainy Day Fund -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Aug-2013

COMMENTARY: Smart-ALEC? OK Gov. Mary Fallin is no Thomas Jefferson -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Aug-2013

Oklahoma’s food stamp overpayments totaled over $29 million in Fiscal Year 2011 -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Aug-2013

Oklahoma state tax collections: A record-shattering 12 months -

Patrick B. McGuigan

09-Aug-2013

Is Oklahoma OK? Sooner State ranks just ‘fair-to-middlin’ in cost-benefit study -

Patrick B. McGuigan

31-Jul-2013

Oklahoma’s economic dynamism -- in the eyes of the beholders? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Jul-2013

Senate President Pro Temp Bingman backs special session focused on lawsuit reform -

Patriuck B. McGuigan

17-Jul-2013

Oklahoma coalition forms to declare ‘Syria – Not our War!’ -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Jul-2013

Finance Secretary Doerflinger floats possible changes in energy incentives, industry reacts -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-Jul-2013

COMMENTARY Nothing ‘Anonymous’ about wasted lives and bad laws: Prison policies must change -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Jul-2013

Oklahoma’s gross tax receipts: up for the year, down for the month -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Jul-2013

COMMENTARY: Public opinion on Medicaid expansion, the Augean Stables, and a better future -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Jun-2013

Editor’s Notebook: Anti-war rally, Common Core conundrum, mayoral maneuvers in OKC, Taiwan ties -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Jun-2013

“Flexible federalism” themes likely for OK Gov. Fallin in National Press Club speech -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Jun-2013

State health care analysts react to investigation saying Medicare provider data ‘inaccurate, incomplete and inconsistent’ -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Carten Cordell

21-Jun-2013

Conservative icon Richard Viguerie boosts ‘right on crime’ efforts -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Jun-2013

For Oklahoma, more time and fresh opportunity for prison reform -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Jun-2013

“Black Friday” reform signed into law after years of debate -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-Jun-2013

Sen. David Holt details “Black Friday” reform struggle -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-Jun-2013

UPDATE: OK ‘Lifeline’ changes signed into law -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Jun-2013

Rep. David Dank rejects grading on the curve, gives 2013 legislative session a “C-“ -

Patrick B. McGuigan

07-Jun-2013

COMMENTARY: Pension reform – Keeping promises and reducing liabilities -

06-Jun-2013

COMMENTARY: OK Grading the 2013 State Legislature and Gov. Fallin -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Jun-2013

State leaders laud their performance at end of 2013 legislative session -- and give themselves an “A” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Jun-2013

Legislature passes funding measure for state tornado relief -

Patrick B. McGuigan

23-May-2013

OKPOP worthy project, economic impact study contends -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

20-May-2013

Legislative opposition to Common Core Curriculum intensifies -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-May-2013

Senate plan could rescue Insure Oklahoma program for working poor -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-May-2013

State Legislators ponder veto overrides -

Patrick B. McGuigan

16-May-2013

Income tax receipts boost government revenue in April -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

16-May-2013

COMMENTARY: Don’t make the perfect the enemy of the good -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-May-2013

Senate clears omnibus budget, Gov. Fallin will sign soon -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-May-2013

Gov. Fallin vetoes pension reform bill, H.B. 2077 -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-May-2013

Gov. Fallin signs income tax cut to take effect in 2015 -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-May-2013

Oklahoma’s dynamic Medicaid discussion includes Florida pilot program -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-May-2013

COMMENTARY: Wishy Washy ObamaCare Buddies -

G. Keith Smith, M.D.

10-May-2013

State House sends $7.2 billion budget to Senate, ‘early’ adjournment discussed -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-May-2013

Obama administration denies extension of Insure Oklahoma program for working poor -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-May-2013

Gov. Fallin signs workers comp, infrastructure bills -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-May-2013

Gov. Fallin and legislators ponder next steps on state Medicaid program -

Patrick B. McGuigan

07-May-2013

Oklahoma’s gross revenue sets record high in April -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

04-May-2013

Driven by education and health care, OK government spending to jump at least $250 million -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-May-2013

House Speaker’s infrastructure plan goes to Gov. Mary Fallin for enactment -

Patrick B. McGuigan

01-May-2013

Check It Out -- Kansas’ economy shows growth in first quarter of 2013 -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

30-Apr-2013

COMMENTARY: The stage is set: unimpressive tax cut, big jump in spending -

24-Apr-2013

Governor, Speaker, Pro Temp announce accord on taxes, workers’ comp and infrastructure -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

23-Apr-2013

Legislative leaders, Gov. Fallin say income tax cut, workers’ comp reform likely -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Apr-2013

COMMENTARY: Earth Day Exposes the Ironies of the Left’s Trendy Environmentalism -

Todd Myers, Washington Policy Center

18-Apr-2013

Legislative leaders chide legislator for comments on House floor -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Apr-2013

UPDATE: Senate toughens provisions against ‘Lifeline’ phone abuses -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Apr-2013

As state’s Higher Education officials tout economic impact, some doubts raised -

Patrick B. McGuigan

16-Apr-2013

General Revenue fund shows big jump in corporate income taxes -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

09-Apr-2013

COMMENTARY: Oklahoma budget-making as a five-act drama – or comedy, or tragedy -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Apr-2013

Fallin signs trio of agreements with Gov. Boswell for Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Apr-2013

IN BRIEF: Emergency Room usage by Oklahoma Medicaid recipients -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Apr-2013

State Senate panel passes income tax cut … with some differences -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Apr-2013

Treasurer's report: March Gross Receipts show "positives," including gross production and corporate income tax collections -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

03-Apr-2013

Oklahoma leaders maintain opposition to Medicaid expansion, as homegrown reform founders -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Apr-2013

A tale of two states: When it comes to Medicaid sustainability, Illinois and Oklahoma are more alike than not -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Apr-2013

Speaker applauds sale of unused state properties -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

02-Apr-2013

Unity in Diversity? Maybe not: Some love, and some hate, Oklahoma’s high rank in freedom index -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Mar-2013

Mercatus Center raves about Oklahoma’s dramatic move toward economic liberty -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Mar-2013

Editor’s Notebook: Closing time, lobbying day, haze hearing, hard core on Common Core -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-Mar-2013

OK: For the 2014 budget -- $200 million more, or $200 million less? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Mar-2013

OCPA to release annual budget book -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

22-Mar-2013

COMMENTARY: Oklahoma Prison Reform or bovine scatology? Prove it! -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Mar-2013

Action Items for Oklahoma: Criminal Justice -

Gene Perry, Oklahoma Policy Institute

21-Mar-2013

Conservatives cheer as State Chamber of Oklahoma supports 'Shannon-Fallin tax cut' -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Mar-2013

Gov. Fallin wants to consolidate pension administration -- firefighters oppose that and more -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Mar-2013

Pension reforms advance, including the firefighters fund -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Mar-2013

Conservative activists cheer Rand Paul at national conference – and “Ben Franklin” stops in -

Keisha Schultz

16-Mar-2013

Oklahoma Attorney General’s Chief of Staff unresponsive to written question on state programs for non-violent offenders -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Mar-2013

Habemus Papam! Habemus Budgetam? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Mar-2013

Tax refunds, drop in NatGas production reduces general revenues; sales taxes healthy -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

12-Mar-2013

COMMENTARY: Sooner and Later: For prison reform, light a candle and ‘stick with it’ -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Mar-2013

Reach out and touch someone – Oklahoma House passes reforms in Lifeline ‘free’ phone program -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Mar-2013

COMMENTARY: Medicaid Expansion: Principle, People and Peril -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Mar-2013

Treasurer Miller: Gross collections dip in February -

Staff Report

04-Mar-2013

COMMENTARY: Practical or moral, for the sake of the ten -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-Feb-2013

States’ Rights Fight in Sooner State -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Feb-2013

Cole says sequestration is better than a tax hike -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Feb-2013

After sequestration battle, OK Rep. Cole sees three more big fights -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Feb-2013

States’ Rights panel advances Speaker’s contingency plan for spending cuts -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Feb-2013

Oklahoma pension reformers seek ‘sustainability’ and ‘intergenerational fairness’ -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Feb-2013

Bingman’s modest agenda grows more complex as session advances -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Feb-2013

Democratic Leader Scott Inman jabs at tax cut, defends water plan, backs Capitol spending -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Feb-2013

Rising income tax revenues yield FY 2013’s biggest general revenue fund surge, Doerflinger says -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

14-Feb-2013

Gen. Rita Aragon anticipates State of the Union comments on sequestration, role of women in the military -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Feb-2013

Gov. Fallin says recent history confirms income tax cuts yield higher long-term revenues -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Feb-2013

Reactions to Fallin’s “State of the State” run the gamut -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Feb-2013

State of the State: Doin’ fine, just OK, or not so good? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Feb-2013

Governor Mary Fallin’s 2013 State of the State address -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

04-Feb-2013

OK: House Speaker on taxes, ‘right-sizing’ spending, and budget challenges in the 2013 session -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Jan-2013

Editor’s Notebook: Leon boosts Tulsa’s OKPOP, Labor says “enough,” and State of the State broadcast -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Jan-2013

State Auditor Gary Jones hit the ground running – and hasn’t let up -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Jan-2013

Analyzing waste, fraud and abuse: Oklahoma state Auditor Jones attacks all three -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Jan-2013

Where courage wanes, freedom is stifled -

House Speaker T.W. Shannon

21-Jan-2013

Auditor Gary Jones closes county audit gap, reorganizes agency -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Jan-2013

Framing the Picture: Speaker Shannon makes history, as outline of 2013 legislative session emerges -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-Jan-2013

Analysis: Oklahoma Court decision may tighten bond issue standards – time will tell -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Jan-2013

Treasurer Miller describes Oklahoma's moderated economic growth -

Staff Report

06-Jan-2013

James Lankford’s “no” vote on the “cliff” deal reflects core policy views -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Jan-2013

Oklahoma City's Top 10 stories: Devon makes history, OCU expands, and the Thunder rolls -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

29-Dec-2012

A billion here, and a billion there: Government revenue grows, but big tax cut unlikely -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Dec-2012

Chamber says “best practices” report can guide state economic development -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

18-Dec-2012

State Sales Tax Collections continue to surge -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

11-Dec-2012

Oklahoma paper smears conservative groups as “controversial” for advocating bipartisan education reforms -

Brandon Dutcher

09-Dec-2012

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin stresses “shared savings” and state flexibility in meeting with Obama -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Dec-2012

Report: Both crime rate and prison populations declined in 2011 -

Patrick B McGuigan

02-Dec-2012

Analysis: If things in Oklahoma are so good, why are they so (potentially) bad? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Nov-2012

Democrats Inman, Dorman disappointed in Fallin’s call; Commissioner Doak supportive -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Nov-2012

COMMENTARY: Driving a man to drink -- Is Oklahoma state Treasurer Ken Miller “growing in office?” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

16-Nov-2012

The Sum of All Fears – “Victory!” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Nov-2012

Government pension fixes may take time – but time has run out -

Frank Keegan

02-Nov-2012

Facebook fans have their say in final match -

Watchdog.org

23-Oct-2012

DEBATE: Hostility at Hofstra ends in a draw? -

Watchdog.org

17-Oct-2012

Economist calls on Congress to head off possible financial crisis -

Stacy Martin

10-Oct-2012

Commissioner Costello determined to let union cats out of the bag -

Stacy Martin

05-Oct-2012

State leaders seem to agree Obama, Romney have distinctly different views -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Oct-2012

DEBATE: Romney wins in Denver by TKO -

Watchdog.org

04-Oct-2012

Oklahoma’s Online college revolution to leave empire builders with big bills -

Stacy Martin

02-Oct-2012

Visitors from the East bear gifts of Medicaid Reform -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Sep-2012

COMMENTARY: Can the Legislature do more than one thing at a time? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Sep-2012

We’re still No. 1! Prison crowding plan runs into questions, comments, awkward silences -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Sep-2012

Common Education: Administrative costs under fire -

Stacy Martin

04-Sep-2012

Dr. Tom to Romney: Listen to your wife -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Aug-2012

Commentary: Increased Government Spending Is Our Default Setting -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Aug-2012

History says earth is round, medical costs will rise under Affordable Care Act -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Aug-2012

Lt. Gov. Lamb praises Oklahoma firefighters, and Romney’s surge -

Patrick B. McGuigan

16-Aug-2012

COMMENTARY: State lawmakers sink deeper into denial on pension catastrophe -

Frank Keegan

08-Aug-2012

Changing Culture and changing spending: DHS begins to implement Pinnacle Plan -

Patrick B. McGuigan

07-Aug-2012

Reps. Nelson, Morrissette support final version of Human Services’ “Pinnacle Plan” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Jul-2012

DHS “co-Neutrals” approve Pinnacle Plan, $100 million a year spending hike expected -

Patrick B McGuigan

25-Jul-2012

Six referred questions on statewide November ballot, with one citizen initiative still circulating -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Jul-2012

Agriculture Commissioner to Rep. Reynolds: Agency will contract with Youth Expo -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Jul-2012

Flap over funding youth expo not over -

Billie Rodely

20-Jul-2012

In U.S. House, conservative Republican opposition could prevent passage of 2012 farm bill -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

18-Jul-2012

Oklahoma Rep. Frank Lucas defends U.S. House Agriculture Committee version of FARRM Act, presses for floor consideration -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Jul-2012

Sen. Anderson asks Gov. Fallin to stop transfer of funds for Youth Expo -

Patrick B McGuigan

17-Jul-2012

California, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania – perilous public pensions provide cautionary examples for Oklahoma? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Jul-2012

Interim thinking: Speaker Steele approves dozens of Interim Studies -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Jul-2012

Kern, Morrissette, McDaniel, Murphey and other House members to lead significant interim study committees -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Jul-2012

Oklahoma High Court asked to review bonding practices -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Jul-2012

Commentary: Public pension infinite amortization puts taxpayers in debt forever -

Frank Keegan, State Budget Solutions

12-Jul-2012

Opinion: Local, state pensions fall another $1.5 trillion short so far this year -

Frank Keegan, State Budget Solutions

11-Jul-2012

Record deposit set for Oklahoma Rainy Day Fund; monthly sales tax collections climb 13.1 percent -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

11-Jul-2012

The nature of risk – San Bernardino, three other California municipalities are bankrupt -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-Jul-2012

Tom Coburn joins Republicans in Congress asking nation’s governors, including Oklahoma’s Mary Fallin, not to implement health care exchange -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Jul-2012

36 Hours: ObamaCare in Oklahoma -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Jun-2012

Ruling by Roberts Court enrages – and re-energizes – Oklahoma Republicans -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Jun-2012

Oklahoma’s progressives, Democrats say it’s “time to move forward” on health care -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Jun-2012

Free market think tank responds to “ObamaCare” ruling, A.G. Pruitt says new reform is “up to voters” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Jun-2012

Oklahoma Health Care Authority analyzes impact of High Court decision -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Jun-2012

Attorney General Pruitt, fellow Republicans assail health care ruling, predict new reforms -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Jun-2012

Two Oklahoma City physicians applaud Supreme Court ruling -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Jun-2012

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin, legislative leaders decry “ObamaCare” ruling -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Jun-2012

Auditor & Inspector Gary Jones to begin audit of state tax credits -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

21-Jun-2012

Pew Center on the States: State-level unfunded pension liability nears $1.4 trillion -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Jun-2012

Institute finds nationwide state-level total of $900 billion in off-balance sheet debt; Oklahoma in lower-middle tier -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Jun-2012

May general revenue climbs, Rainy Day Fund may reach pre-Recession level -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

12-Jun-2012

Commentary: Don’t read their lips – read their budgets -

Perspective Magizine

12-Jun-2012

Analysis: Fiscal Year Budget overview: Been down so long it feels like up -

Oklahoma Policy Institute

12-Jun-2012

Higher Education and higher spending -- Fallin signs three bills -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

07-Jun-2012

State revenue collections rise, as gross production receipts slide -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

06-Jun-2012

Fallin signs bills boosting funding for Department of Transportation -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Jun-2012

Commentary: Study calls for “drastic reform” of public pension regulation -

Frank Keegan, State Budget Solutions

01-Jun-2012

Senate Democrats revel in collapse of tax cuts, decry “missed opportunities” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-May-2012

If voters agree, intangible assets will not face new ad valorem taxation -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-May-2012

Analysis: Dave Blatt cheers death of tax cut, Jon Small questions source of revenue for budget increases -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-May-2012

Senate Republicans want vote on tax cut agreement -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

23-May-2012

House Republicans press measure to cut taxes -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

23-May-2012

Fallin pushes for tax cut deal -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

23-May-2012

Legislative Endgame 2012, OCPA’s analysis: “It’s the spending, … ” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

23-May-2012

Steele comments on House passage of DHS governance reforms -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

22-May-2012

Fallin and legislative leaders announce budget accord -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

22-May-2012

Fallin, Steele, Bingman unveil tax proposal -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

18-May-2012

Group of 30 state leaders oppose "tax trigger mechanisms" -

Patrick B. McGuigan

16-May-2012

General Revenue report indicates “banner year” for Oklahoma’s economy -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

15-May-2012

Thinking Small -- One man’s “top 10 ways to cut Oklahoma state government spending” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-May-2012

From concern to activism: Tulsa woman organizes friends, allies to favor education spending -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

12-May-2012

Justice Reinvestment bill signed, laying basis for policy transformations -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-May-2012

New wave of Higher Ed bonds gain approval from state Council of Bond Oversight -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-May-2012

Massive income and sales tax cut in Kansas could boost Oklahoma tax cut hopes -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-May-2012

Where the twain does not meet: Dr. Laffer vs. Dr. Hepner -

Patrick B. McGuigan

09-May-2012

Editor’s Notebook: Capitol Repairs, Open Carry, judicial portrait, Mason’s art -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-May-2012

Steele calls passage of justice reinvestment initiative “a significant moment,” reflects on a quiet week at the Legislature -

Patrick B.McGuigan

03-May-2012

Revenue Collections Resume Rise In Spite of Gross Production Decline -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

03-May-2012

Editor’s Notebook: Bingman back, tax debate slated, liability limit signed, personhood appeal -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-May-2012

Governor Fallin still wants “significant” tax cut, Steele seconds the motion, Democrats demur -

Patrick B. McGuigan

01-May-2012

Doerflinger asserts “Oklahoma is more than OK” -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

26-Apr-2012

Oklahoma ranked 18th best in group’s 2012 “business tax index” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-Apr-2012

Blatt battles income tax reductions, builds Oklahoma Policy Institute -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-Apr-2012

Snapshots: Personhood foes unite, human trafficking opposed, Chamber cheers intangible protections, Fallin’s powers enhanced -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Apr-2012

As he seeks a third term, Senator Clark Jolley of Edmond pushing for significant tax cut -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Apr-2012

Oklahomans Embrace Income Tax Cut Some opposition to cutting to 4.75% comes from those thinking it does not go far enough -

Pat McFerron

19-Apr-2012

Paul Blair brings strict fiscal conservative views to District 41 Senate race -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Apr-2012

As he seeks reelection to Congress, Oklahoma’s Tom Cole is optimistic for Republican chances to win the presidency, U.S. Senate and U.S. House -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Apr-2012

In-E-Quality: Quality Jobs Program morphs into easy money source for those who know the game -

Stacy Martin

17-Apr-2012

James Lankford seeks reelection to Congress – his key issues are still “budget and debt” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Apr-2012

Tom Guild, Democratic nominee in Fifth Congressional District, pegs incumbent as “wrong for Oklahoma, wrong for America” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Apr-2012

Hundreds of union activists and allies protest Oklahoma visit by Wisconsin's Scott Walker -

14-Apr-2012

Scott Walker brings conservative message to Citizenship event in Oklahoma -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Apr-2012

General Revenue remains strong, sales taxes growth by double digits again -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

12-Apr-2012

ALEC study lists Oklahoma 15th best in economic outlook, Fallin writes introduction, group defends itself from liberal attacks -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Apr-2012

Visitors from Kansas and Missouri encourage Oklahoma income tax phase out -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Apr-2012

Oklahoma Policy Institute speakers slam Laffer study, oppose income tax phase out -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Apr-2012

Oklahoma’s Tax Freedom Day is April 8, Tax Foundation analyst says -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Apr-2012

Bob Wills is still the King – Oklahoma Historical Society receives grant to preserve western swing music recordings -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Apr-2012

Commentary: A Conflict of Visions – in a battle that matters -

Perspective Magazine

04-Apr-2012

Two-year Revenue Growth Streak Ends as Collections Fall -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

03-Apr-2012

Things That Matter: Pension Reforms, Justice Reinvestment, and Honors Due -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Apr-2012

Education analysts respond critically to OU graduation rate disclosures -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Apr-2012

“Significant” income tax cut still within reach, as Fallin repeats her advocacy -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Apr-2012

DHS “Pinnacle” draft envisions funding increase, more case workers, management reforms -- and families willing to provide foster homes -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Mar-2012

Four-year student graduation rate at the University of Oklahoma is 35.7 percent -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Mar-2012

Taxes and everything else: The hard work begins -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Mar-2012

Tulsa’s Sue Tibbs: tough lady, criminal justice reformer, loyal friend -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Mar-2012

Speaker Steele said taxes will be cut (this year), more legislative transparency will come (some day) and lobbyists are powerful (every year) -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Mar-2012

Editor’s Notebook: Senate advances income tax cut, conservation plan, pension back-fill -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Mar-2012

OSF says general revenue growth again in double digits, consumer confidence strong -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

13-Mar-2012

After debate, Oklahoma state Senate passes income tax phase out, 30-17 -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Mar-2012

House Republicans press transformational state income tax phase out, hundreds of millions of dollars in reduced spending -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Mar-2012

Dell retrenches, but ranks among highest Quality Jobs recipients -

Stacy Martin

12-Mar-2012

Bi-partisan majority sends Oklahoma's justice reforms to Senate, action anticipated within two weeks -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-Mar-2012

Miller: February Continues 24-Month Revenue Streak -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

11-Mar-2012

Republican leaders press ahead on cluster of substantive policy proposals -

Patrick B. McGuigan

09-Mar-2012

Oklahoma income tax rate phase out and related issues move to center of legislative deliberation -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Mar-2012

Free market think tank projects billions in potential savings -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Mar-2012

J.C. Watts and Herman Cain join Jackie Gingrich Cushman to rally support for former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Mar-2012

Oklahoma Legislators, ALEC hold justice reinvestment session -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

05-Mar-2012

New round of pension reforms advance in Oklahoma House -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Mar-2012

Steele discusses wide range of issues with reporters, is “extremely encouraged” by justice reinvestment intiative's advance in the Legislature -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Mar-2012

Steele and Murphey advance another round of consolidation and projected savings for taxpayers -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Mar-2012

Senator Bingman backs Crain’s personhood bill, supports some tax credits, encourages Republican presidential primary voters -

Patrick B. McGuigan

01-Mar-2012

Ok House Seeks Sale of State Properties -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

01-Mar-2012

Laffer plan clears House Appropriations and Budget Committee -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Feb-2012

Governor Mary Fallin’s tax plan clears House A&B panel -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

29-Feb-2012

Robert Coombs from Council of State Governments hopeful for Oklahoma's justice reinvestment plans -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Feb-2012

Analysis: Teachers association seeks $100 million in teacher raises although existing school district spending patterns reflect questionable expenditures -

Stacy Martin and Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Feb-2012

Former Corporation Commissioner Denise Bode boosts wind power in state visit -

Patrick B. McGuigan

27-Feb-2012

GOP legislative leaders optimistic as 2012 session takes shape -

Patrick B McGuigan

26-Feb-2012

As Fallin's tax reform package is prepared for introduction, forward progress for other versions of income tax phase out -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-Feb-2012

Republican leaders at the Capitol strike cautious but supportive tone in discussion of tax cuts, phaseout -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Feb-2012

Occupy This! Lyric at the Plaza hosts Oklahoma city Gridiron Club's roast of Obama, Fallin and all their pals -

Publius

21-Feb-2012

Editor’s Notebook: AFP slams internet taxes, McAffrey begins Senate duties, Israeli couple shares story of “Terror to Triumph” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Feb-2012

Firefighter retirement funding measure advances to the Senate, McDaniel presses further reform -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Feb-2012

Speaker Steele, Minority Leader Inman lead charge to stop pay hike for state officials, judges -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Feb-2012

Editor’s notebook: parole amendment, Karma arrives, political party events -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Feb-2012

State Finance: February brings all-time record in sales tax collections, all receipts up -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

14-Feb-2012

Commentary: What Would Reagan Do? -

Marc Nuttle

14-Feb-2012

For Oklahoma's justice reinvestment, analysts say, “Make the change, and stick with it” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Feb-2012

Counsel from a Texan: conservative Republican encourages Oklahoma's Justice Reinvestment Initiative -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Feb-2012

Senator Anderson questions Higher Ed bonding for Medical Examiner's Office at UCO -

Patrick B. McGuigan

09-Feb-2012

Santorum to speak at Capitol Repubican Caucus meeting in Oklahoma City -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Feb-2012

President Pro Temp Bingman details Republican agenda in CapitolBeatOK interview -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Feb-2012

Capitol throng ponders “What Would Reagan Do?” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

07-Feb-2012

Conservatives cheer Gov Fallin’s income tax reduction/phaseout plan -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Feb-2012

House Democratic leader, OK Policy decry Fallin tax plan -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Feb-2012

Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin seeks “most significant tax cut in state history" -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Feb-2012

State of the State Address 2012 -

Governor Mary Fallin

06-Feb-2012

Details on Fallin’s income tax reforms will come on Monday -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Feb-2012

Treasurer Miller says: “Oklahoma Economy Expands, But ...” -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

03-Feb-2012

As caucus nears, Gingrich tells Nevadans he is best choice for GOP to reverse failed Obama policies -

Sean Whaley , Nevada News Bureau

02-Feb-2012

Mary Fallin promises tax cuts, workforce development, pro-energy policy, better health outcomes, and a Capitol bond -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Feb-2012

Oklahoma Watchdog stories impact legislative debate over public employee pay -

Patrick B. McGuigan

01-Feb-2012

Conservative leaders reinforce strict “no new taxes” pledge for Oklahoma legislators -

Patrick B. McGuigan

31-Jan-2012

Oklahoma Education Association income plummets $1 million in past year -

Stacy Martin

27-Jan-2012

Dank, Sears and Steele unveil measures to extend moratorium on some tax credits and put stricter criteria into state constitution -

Stacy Martin

27-Jan-2012

OCPA’s Michael Carnuccio cheers legislative momentum for income tax phase out -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Jan-2012

Editor’s Notebook: tax rate cut surges, Barresi believes, Reynolds responds -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Jan-2012

Senator Treat sponsors bill to limit wage garnishment provisions -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Jan-2012

Jason Murphey, Randy McDaniel, Kris Steele unveil intensified agenda for agency consolidation, fiscal stability, pension reform -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Jan-2012

Lt. Gov. Lamb's report studies: “What impedes our growth as a state?” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Jan-2012

Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Lamb advocates moving school board elections to November -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Jan-2012

House Republicans promise conservative agenda, tax rate action -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Jan-2012

U.S. Rep. James Lankford looks at battles of budget, federal unemployment policy and the Senate stall -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Jan-2012

Auditor Gary Jones summarizes education department findings -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Jan-2012

WIR’s story is evidence that “justice reinvestment” can work -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-Jan-2012

General Revenue collections end first half of Fiscal Year 2012 on high note -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

10-Jan-2012

Justice Reinvestment update scheduled for Wednesday, model Tulsa program advances alternatives to incarceration -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Jan-2012

Settlement agreement in DHS lawsuit lays basis for agency reform, likely spending increases -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Jan-2012

In DHS lawsuit settlement, “co-neutrals” not subject to open records provisions -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Jan-2012

Miller says 2011 brought economic health, 2012 looks even better -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

05-Jan-2012

Treasurer Miller reacts cautiously to Mazzei, Dank and OCPA tax proposals, says “major change” should require voter approval -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Jan-2012

DHS settlement amended by Contingency Review Board, details undisclosed -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Dec-2011

Leading CapitolBeatOK’s top 10 for 2011: pension reform, economic boom, proposed income tax phase-out -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

28-Dec-2011

Economy, weather, anti-discrimination ordinance lead list of 2011's top Oklahoma City stories -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-Dec-2011

Steele outlines process to allow Oklahoma taxpayers to keep “money that rightfully belongs to them” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Dec-2011

Chamber leaders oppose some proposed tax credit reforms -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Dec-2011

Task Force on tax credits and incentives approves final report -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

21-Dec-2011

Not so routine: Board of Equalization funds OHLAP, but designates use of agency reserve -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Dec-2011

With more vacation days and separate travel, cost of President Obama's annual Hawaiian holiday rises -

MALIA ZIMMERMAN of The Hawaii Reporter

18-Dec-2011

Fallin finds Obama grant decision “disappointing” – Superintendent Barresi presses for more spending, board edges forward on evaluation model -

Patrick B. McGuigan

16-Dec-2011

November General Revenue collections outpace last year’s by 22.6 percent – oil revenue surges -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

14-Dec-2011

State Education department spokesman: Barresi anticipates low costs for implementing “Common Core” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Dec-2011

Sullivan assumes leadership of Grand River Dam Authority -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

08-Dec-2011

Jones: Audit of Grand River Dam Authority points to major problems during Easley era -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Dec-2011

Tulsa debt collection firm gets up to $9 million in state money from the Quality Jobs Program -

Stacy Martin and Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Dec-2011

Oklahoma economy heads into a Merry Christmas season, Treasurer Miller says -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

01-Dec-2011

Tax credits and incentives task force evaluates proposed reforms -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

30-Nov-2011

“Let’s Get It On”-- Laffer outlines plan for phased in elimination of Oklahoma state income tax -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Nov-2011

Oklahoma Curve: Phased-in income tax elimination would yield 312,000 more jobs, higher personal income, better economy, analysis says -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Nov-2011

Anticipating Board of Equalization meeting, Fallin predicts another tight budget year -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Nov-2011

Fair to middlin’ – Oklahoma debt high, but look at Alaska, New Jersey, Hawaii, Connecticut, New Mexico and Illinois -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Nov-2011

For the Legislature at mid-cycle, the times, they are a-changin' -

Patrick B. McGuigan

16-Nov-2011

General Revenue grows in all categories, including oil, Doerflinger says -

CapitolBeatOK staff Report

15-Nov-2011

Sen. David Myers' funeral services scheduled for Ponca City's First Baptist today -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Nov-2011

Rice and Reynolds contribute alternative views in tax credit task force deliberations -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Nov-2011

Treasurer Ken Miller takes critical view of some reform ideas before tax credit task force -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Nov-2011

Rep. Earl Sears, Auditor & Inspector Gary Jones outline views on reform of tax credits and economic incentives -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Nov-2011

Dank provides aggressive framework for reform of Oklahoma tax credits and economic incentives -

Patrick B. McGuigan

09-Nov-2011

Commentary: Occupy Wall Street should occupy GASB -

Frank Keegan

06-Nov-2011

Oklahoma rises above worldwide chaos -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

03-Nov-2011

Miller: With revenue gap fading and a bright economic picture, Oklahoma is in an enviable place -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Nov-2011

Speaker Kris Steele sketches Texas results, works to advance “justice reinvestment” model -

Patrick B. McGuigan

31-Oct-2011

“Right on Crime” analyses tout Lone Star State's dramatic criminal justice reforms -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Oct-2011

Three town halls indicate tough decisions on incarceration, criminal justice issues -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Oct-2011

Editor’s notebook: Schlafly visits, U.S. states face “staggering” deficits, Fallin administration submits controversial federal grant proposal -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Oct-2011

Speaker Steele, Rep. Nelson lead drive for DHS reform, call for more involvement from churches and other non-government groups -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Oct-2011

Making the intangible tangible: Oklahoma Task Force looks at problematic precedent, and tough taxation issues -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Oct-2011

Rep. Dank outlines layered scrutiny of tax credits and incentives -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Oct-2011

Reynolds: Two programs have per-job costs “worse than Solyndra” -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

12-Oct-2011

Workers comp lawyer Richard Bell assails tax credit transferability -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Oct-2011

Mitch Daniels reflects on progress in limiting government, without making it inert -

Patrick B. McGuigan

07-Oct-2011

OCPA scholars respond to Fallin appointee’s attack on higher education study -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Oct-2011

Indiana’s Mitch Daniels highlights Liberty Gala in Tulsa -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Oct-2011

Bipartisan group of state House members scrutinize Kindergarten starting date -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Oct-2011

Superintendent Barresi leads opposition to Rep. Johnson’s bill to delay Kindergarten start date -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Oct-2011

Rose State College President earned $212,000 in Fiscal Year 2010 -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

04-Oct-2011

Personnel costs at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M were over $9 million in Fiscal Year 2010 -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

04-Oct-2011

President at Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton was paid $125,000 in Fiscal Year 2010 -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Oct-2011

Getting The Low-Down On Higher Ed -

Billie Rodely

29-Sep-2011

Business, civic groups, early childhood education advocates back Fallin administration's decision to seek Obama administration grant -

Patrick B. McGuigan

27-Sep-2011

Oklahomans ambivalent about early childhood programs, teachers critical of three-year-old programs and Obama grant -

Patrick B. McGuigan

27-Sep-2011

Seminole State President James Utterback was paid $211,416 in Fiscal Year 2010 -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy L. Martin

27-Sep-2011

States cut but still no budget gluts -

Elizabeth Crum

27-Sep-2011

Twenty state government employees at Tulsa Community College earned over $100,000 a year -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

26-Sep-2011

Many credits, exemptions, abatements and other tax breaks extend beyond business interests -

Stacy Martin

25-Sep-2011

Oklahoma City Community College: 12 employees earned more than $100,000 a year -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy L. Martin

23-Sep-2011

Rogers State University: Lowest four-year graduation rate, nine employees over $100,000 a year -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy L. Martin

23-Sep-2011

Treasurer Ken Miller urges accounting group to keep pension obligation focus on the state, not local school districts -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Sep-2011

Connors State pays college president more than governor, campus spending up 42 percent since 2003 -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Sep-2011

Oklahomans back lower taxes, smaller government, SoonerPoll finds -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Sep-2011

Back to the Future for OSU-Tulsa and Langston-Tulsa -

Billie Rodely

13-Sep-2011

Junior college in Poteau had nearly $9 million payroll in Fiscal year 2010 -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

13-Sep-2011

At Oklahoma’s Murray State College, payroll totaled $6,544,046 in Fiscal Year 2010 -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

13-Sep-2011

Western Oklahoma president earns more than $100,000, campus budget doubles in a decade -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

12-Sep-2011

Doerflinger: You’re doin’ fine, Oklahoma -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

12-Sep-2011

Task Force members pan investment/new jobs tax credit, say it is a poor model -

Patrick B. McGuigan

09-Sep-2011

Task Force touts Quality Jobs Program as an example to other incentive programs -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Sep-2011

Rep. Dank will push to end transferable tax credits -

Patrick B. McGuigan

07-Sep-2011

Three Cameron University employees earn more than Gov. Fallin, four others top $100,000 in annual pay -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Sep-2011

Miller: Oklahoma Economy Hot in August -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

06-Sep-2011

"A tale of two economies" -- Oklahoma's economic advance continues amidst U.S. lethargy -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Sep-2011

Editor’s Notebook: comp clarification, comp conviction, rate rebate, defense costs, constitutional reserve, tax debate -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Aug-2011

Investment procedures and process scrutinized at Capitol hearing of Dank Committee -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Aug-2011

Former governor and wife honored as “champs for children,” early childhood policies advocated at Smart Start conference -

Patrick B. McGuigan

23-Aug-2011

Governor Fallin announces appointments to Task Force on Comprehensive Tax Reform -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

23-Aug-2011

Commissioner Mark Costello brings business-friendly agenda to the Labor Department job -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Aug-2011

Higher Education dominates Oklahoma’s high-end public salaries -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Aug-2011

School readiness partnership plans to make recommendations to Governor Mary Fallin -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Aug-2011

Strong majority of likely voters prefer tax relief over early childhood programs, pre-school -

Bill Shapard

19-Aug-2011

Editor’s notebook: Disasters, a watchdog, manufacturing impact -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Aug-2011

Seeking to define the word “reimbursement” – task force looks at successful incentive program, and who benefits -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Aug-2011

Hearing on residential energy efficiency draws crowd to state House chamber -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Aug-2011

Treasurer Ken Miller surveys positive momentum for state government after first few months in office -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Aug-2011

Insititute for Truth in Accounting exposes “unbalanced budgets” – five sinkhole states, five sunshine states -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

05-Aug-2011

U.S. Rep. James Lankford of Oklahoma summarizes reasons for “yes” vote on debt ceiling -

Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Aug-2011

Treasurer Miller says energy industry still leads revenue growth -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

03-Aug-2011

Treasurer Ken Miller describes “moderated economic growth,” hopes Washington “doesn’t screw things up” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Aug-2011

Oklahoma legislators back federal balanced budget amendment, conservative analyst calls for strict provisions -

Patrick B. McGuigan

02-Aug-2011

Pruitt announces pension probe, Steele and McDaniel press additional reforms -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Jul-2011

Tom, Mike and Jonathan: Shades of Difference -

Patrick B. McGuigan

27-Jul-2011

Fallin hopeful of future investments in Oklahoma economy -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Jul-2011

Gov. Fallin expresses deep concern over “huge impact” of possible federal default -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Jul-2011

In GASB exposure drafts, school districts must account for teacher pension liabilities -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Jul-2011

Public employee retirement system director reacts cautiously to GASB drafts -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Jul-2011

Miller time: Federal default happened once before, and it was not good -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Jul-2011

First impact of U.S. default would be on state’s health care authority, federal employees -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Jul-2011

The dutiful servant: City finance director ponders a federal default -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Jul-2011

Editor’s Notebook: A Chamber hire, a legal hearing, a pension focus -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Jul-2011

When a credit is an offset, is an exemption, is a reserve, is a bailout: Task Force tackles insurance industry tax credits -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Jul-2011

Serving 'the first master' – Tax incentives under legislative microscope -

Billie Rodely

16-Jul-2011

Oklahoma’s primary care physician shortage provokes contrasting analysis -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Jul-2011

With proposed new pension norms, it is the Great GASB, or the late GASB? -

By Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Jul-2011

Legislative leaders approve important interim studies, including education policy questions -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Jul-2011

Commentary: Bond lawyers not waiting for new public pension rules from Government Accounting Standards Board -

Frank Keegan

13-Jul-2011

On a rainy day, analysts debate best use of Rainy Day Fund deposit -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Jul-2011

Economic growth yields 'Rainy Day Fund' deposit of $219 million -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

11-Jul-2011

Janet Barresi's “State of Education” speech -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

08-Jul-2011

Internal Revenue Service list shows varied state groups losing tax-exempt status -

Stacy Martin

06-Jul-2011

Miller describes “up and up” state economy, but worries about U.S. default -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Jul-2011

Study: Oklahoma’s adjusted judicial compensation falls in the upper middle of states -

Patrick B. McGuigan

05-Jul-2011

Study: Oklahoma farm subsidies total $5.40 billion from 1995 to 2010 -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Jun-2011

Barresi spokesman defends state schools activities fund allocations -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Jun-2011

The Eyes of the Beholders: Is Oklahoma a rich state, or a poor state? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Jun-2011

Commentary: FCC report details fall of state, local news but offers wrong solution -

Jason Stverak

27-Jun-2011

Comprehensive study of 50 states ranks Oklahoma among the worst in unfunded liabilities -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

27-Jun-2011

Barresi, Board of Education approves portions of common education budget -

Patrick B. McGuigan

24-Jun-2011

Tulsa Tech superintendent explains large fund carry-overs -

Patrick B. McGuigan

23-Jun-2011

Auditor & Inspector Gary Jones: “rapid progress” in closing audit backlog -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Jun-2011

Fallin’s first choices: Conservative Republicans, for the most part -

Patrick B. McGuigan

17-Jun-2011

Fallin’s first choices: One-fourth are re-appointments -

Patrick B. McGuigan

16-Jun-2011

Editor’s notebook: Rainy Day Fund boost, Brad Carson’s prospects, Mike Fogarty’s raise -

Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Jun-2011

Joint water policy committee formed, further pension reforms envisioned -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Jun-2011

Higher (economics) Education, the “Bowen Rule,” and a challenge to conventional wisdom -

Patrick B. McGuigan

14-Jun-2011

Governors to Congress: For Medicaid reform, repeal “ObamaCare” -

Patrick B McGuigan

13-Jun-2011

Republican governors craft historic attempt to improve Medicaid delivery -

Patrick B. McGuigan

13-Jun-2011

Looking at Lankford: A freshman member of Congress becomes a player -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Jun-2011

A year makes a difference: James Lankford a leader among freshman conservatives in the U.S. House -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Jun-2011

New study challenges link between taxpayer spending on Higher Ed and economic growth -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

10-Jun-2011

Analysis: Oklahoma ranked twelfth in freedom among the 50 states -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Jun-2011

Analysis: National concern over debt intensifies, some analysts encourage spending changes -

Patrick B. McGuigan

07-Jun-2011

Treasurer Miller on state economy and government tax revenue: “The crisis is over” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

03-Jun-2011

Oklahoma state government revenue 12-month receipts top $10 billion -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

02-Jun-2011

Fallin gets “quick action closing” mechanism, but no new funding -

Patrick B. McGuigan

31-May-2011

Fallin names GRDA board member, May and April appointments sketched -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-May-2011

Bill benefiting classroom teachers signed into law -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

25-May-2011

Gnawing the bone: Analyzing Oklahoma’s 2012 budget -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-May-2011

Speaker Kris Steele hails “breadth of accomplishments” in 2011 session -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-May-2011

Quote analysis: Speaker Steele, Treasurer Miller speak up and speak out -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-May-2011

Commentary: If public pension checks bounce, blame union leaders and politicians, not taxpayers -

Frank Keegan

17-May-2011

Steele looks at future policy challenges as Fallin signs major corrections reform -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-May-2011

Is pension reform the crowning achievement of the 2011 Legislature? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-May-2011

Legislative leaders and Governor Fallin announce budget outline -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-May-2011

NEWS FLASH: Oklahoma Governor Fallin signs pension reforms, to save $6.8 billion -

Patrick B. McGuigan

10-May-2011

Proposal would bring more mature students in pre-K, Kindergarten -

Patrick B. McGuigan

09-May-2011

Editor’s Notebook: Pension reform nears, economic hopes, budget prospects -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-May-2011

Senator Dan Newberry shepherds opportunity scholarship to passage -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

05-May-2011

By the numbers: high- and low-performing public schools in the Oklahoma City district -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

05-May-2011

Ten local superintendents are compensated more than $1,000 per student -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

03-May-2011

Analysis: 202 public school superintendents paid more than $100,000 a year -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

03-May-2011

Fallin vetoes making Ardmore Center a branch of Southeastern OSU -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

29-Apr-2011

Former Pro Tem Cal Hobson leaves post at University of Oklahoma -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Apr-2011

House sends teacher retirement changes back to Senate -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

29-Apr-2011

Consolidation measure moves to conference committee -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

28-Apr-2011

Bingman hints at budget deal, reflects on consolidation, immigration, corrections, hospital fees -

Patrick B. McGuigan

27-Apr-2011

'SHOPP' fee measure clears Senate, heads to House as national group announces opposition -

Patrick B. McGuigan

26-Apr-2011

Pensions for Pols: The retirement benefits of 16 Oklahomans -

Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Apr-2011

Ending her first 100 days, Governor Mary Fallin signs two pro-life bills -

Patrick B. McGuigan

21-Apr-2011

Terrill, small band of Republicans fail “Kern-servative” test -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Apr-2011

Dank delivers, Reynolds rejoices: property tax limitation amendment goes to the voters -

Patrick B. McGuigan

20-Apr-2011

Oklahoma Senate advances pension reform measure -

Patrick B. McGuigan

19-Apr-2011

Oklahoma Treasurer Ken Miller preparing pension recommendations -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

19-Apr-2011

Progress for process reforms, on a difficult day for Murphey’s Law -

Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Apr-2011

Governor Fallin issues first veto – House Bill 1812 -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

15-Apr-2011

Speaker Steele announces standing conference committees -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

13-Apr-2011

Fallin signs repeal of “trial de novo,” discusses issues with reporters -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

12-Apr-2011

David Blatt, Oklahoma Policy Institute press revenue options to avoid agency cuts -

Patrick B. McGuigan

12-Apr-2011

Allocations to General Revenue summarized, tax collections near pre-recession levels, Finance official says -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

11-Apr-2011

As water issues loom large, an Indian country voice reflects on news media relations -

Patrick B. McGuigan

11-Apr-2011

Amended Opportunity Scholarship program heads to House floor in wake of Supreme Court support for choice programs -

Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

08-Apr-2011

House Speaker Kris Steele says study of tax credits and exemptions is serious, ongoing -

Patrick B. McGuigan

08-Apr-2011

Pro Tem Brian Bingman analyzes conservative progress in Senate, including Tea Party role -

Patrick B. McGuigan

07-Apr-2011

House Democrats press majority Republicans on budget, proposed park closings -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Apr-2011

Train Wreck, or hopeful prelude? Exchanges, compacts, Medicare, Medicaid -- sidebars, or key to the future? -

Patrick B. McGuigan

06-Apr-2011

Indiana’s per-taxpayer financial burden $5,700, Oklahoma’s is $14,600 -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

05-Apr-2011

Treasurer touts improvement in gross receipts, “relatively good pace” of recovery -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

04-Apr-2011

House Democrats challenge majority to “fund education first” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

01-Apr-2011

Speaker Steele reviews advances for conservative policy agenda -

Patrick B. McGuigan

31-Mar-2011

Government has no place in journalism -

Jason Stverak

30-Mar-2011

Senator Ivester says Democrats will back Fallin in limiting budget cuts -

Patrick B. McGuigan

30-Mar-2011

New survey puts Oklahoma as second worst-funded state for government pensions -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Mar-2011

Dank praises tax exemption tradeoff -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

29-Mar-2011

Appropriations subcommittee approves prison health care savings -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

29-Mar-2011

Inman, Lockhart lead criticism of park closings -

Patrick B. McGuigan

29-Mar-2011

Commentary: Why private sector unions are much different from government unions -

Bob Williams, StateBudgetSolutions.org

28-Mar-2011

Fallin asks Republican legislators to move quickly on priorities -

Patrick B. McGuigan

28-Mar-2011

On pensions, Deputy Treasurer pleads: “stop studying, take action” -

Patrick B. McGuigan

25-Mar-2011

Americans for Prosperity state director calls for “focus” and reform -

Billie Rodely

24-Mar-2011

Senator Mike Mazzei, on “the one that could implode us” -

Patrick B.McGuigan

23-Mar-2011

Fallin endorses health care exchange measure, House Bill 2130 -

By Patrick B. McGuigan

22-Mar-2011

Former Rep. Proctor supports long-term care advocates on statewide R.V. tour -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

22-Mar-2011

Senator Jim Reynolds advances property tax limitation, S.J.R. 5 -

By Patrick B. McGuigan

18-Mar-2011

The week (or two) that was: House Republicans highlight agenda steps -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

18-Mar-2011

Oklahoma Senate advances pension reform measure -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

16-Mar-2011

Opportunity Scholarship Act passes Oklahoma state Senate -

By Patrick B. McGuigan and Stacy Martin

16-Mar-2011

Right on Crime launches Oklahoma effort with Blue Room conference -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

15-Mar-2011

Governor Fallin asks for passage of 'Quick Action Closing Fund' -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

15-Mar-2011

At the Capitol: OEA, Teamsters, other unions rally and lobby today -

By Patrick B. McGuigan

15-Mar-2011

February revenue collections continue positive trend -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

14-Mar-2011

Rep. McDaniel cheers Truth in Funding Act, says structural pension problems remain -

By Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Mar-2011

Oklahoma voters in favor of making changes to higher education administration -

By Wesley Burt, SoonerPoll.com

10-Mar-2011

Northwestern University: Oklahoma will be first to run out of pension cash -- in 2017 -

By Patrick B. McGuigan

10-Mar-2011

House advances 3-year moratorium on public art -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

09-Mar-2011

Senate vote could end special treatment for elected officials -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

08-Mar-2011

Lankford slams EPA mandates on Oklahoma -

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

08-Mar-2011

Americans for Prosperity back Sen. Reynolds in joust with Assessor Sullivan -

by Patrick B. McGuigan

04-Mar-2011

CapitolBeat OK