The State Chamber – a private, nonprofit, business-membership organization – has released its 2007 legislative agenda. According to the group’s website, The organization’s primary mission is to “represent business interests at the capitol, and also provide services and programs designed to address the specific needs of small business, manufacturing, community development and education.” Below is a partial listing of the organization’s agenda items.
Education and work force development: While Oklahoma has strengthened curricula in the state’s common education system and improved its continuing education and skills training, such reform must be supported and enhanced through all areas of learning to assure a quality and qualified work force is available to current and prospective Oklahoma businesses.
Eminent domain: The U.S. Supreme Court’s 2005 Kelo vs. New London decision precipitated activity to modify eminent domain powers as they relate to economic development in at least 30 states last year. Chamber officials believe that decision has no impact on Oklahoma and will work to assure that no changes are made to Oklahoma eminent domain statutes that would negatively impact economic development.
Erosion of incentives: The State Chamber intends to oppose attempts, whether by legislation or litigation, to reduce or repeal necessary economic development incentives.
Health care: Driven by various state and federal mandates, increased utilization and new technologies, health care costs continue to skyrocket and, in some cases, become unaffordable. The State Chamber will work to provide better, more timely access to health care services while striving to contain and reduce health care-related costs.
Lawsuit reform: The State Chamber wants the new Legislature to place a bill on the governor’s desk that achieves major, broad-based lawsuit reform.
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