by Gus Blackwell, Rep.-61
Speaker Pro-Tempore
With just 22 days to go until the November 4 election, there are several important state Constitutional issues I want to make you aware of so you can make an informed decision at the polls on Election Day.
This year, there are four specific state questions which have been placed on the ballot for citizens approval ? two relate to property tax exemptions, one relates to the sale of wine and one would create a Constitutional right for citizens of this state to hunt, trap and fish.
If approved, State Question 735 would amend the state Constitution to create a personal property exemption from state taxes for 100 percent disabled veterans who file taxes as the head of household and have been honorably discharged from any branch of the military, including the National Guard.
State Question 741, if approved, would amend the state Constitution to require individuals and businesses to apply for a property tax exemption prior to filing their taxes. This amendment would reduce the amount of revenue lost by the state on false tax filings by allowing the Tax Commission to vet the applications prior to the filing period. Due to lack of resources, very few tax filings are audited by the state, resulting in millions of dollars in lost revenue when those false tax filings are allowed.
State Question 743, if approved, would amend the state Constitution to require a customer who purchases wine at a winery, festival or trade show to be 21 years old and physically present to make the purchase. Currently, winemakers cannot sell their products directly to restaurants or retail stores in Oklahoma. This amendment would allow winemakers either in or out of state that produce less than 10,000 gallons of wine annually to sell their products directly to state restaurants and retail packages stores.
State Question 742, if approved, would amend the state Constitution to create a right for state citizens to hunt, fish, trap and harvest game and fish. In many states across this nation, a citizen’s right to hunt and fish is under attack. This measure would create Constitutional protection for our citizens to continue hunting and fishing, without reservation.
These are important issues, but our system of governance allows only for the citizen to amend the state Constitution ? not elected officials. It is a system I believe in wholeheartedly, and I hope you, as citizens, will exercise your right to either support or oppose these questions on November 4.
I am at the Capitol during part of the week for meetings and interim studies. You can reach me there at 405-557-7384 or contact me at my home in Goodwell or by email at gusblackwell@okhouse.gov
