Democratic Caucus Demands Redress in Senior Nutrition Program Funding
2009 October 7
by okhousedems
While the din and dismay over cuts to the state's nutrition program budget escalates, the House Democratic Caucus calls attention to priorities under Republican leadership.
"Just a few years ago we enacted the largest tax cuts in Oklahoma history, which provided a windfall for those who needed it least and hampered the state's ability to provide our most basic public services," said Floor Leader Mike Brown, D-Tahlequah. "What we're witnessing with these cuts to our meal-delivery programs and other state functions is the natural evolution of these tax policies." In 2006 the largest tax cuts in state history were enacted, and the state's top marginal income tax rate was greatly reduced. Since the implementation of these tax cuts, state revenue has decreased by almost $1 billion dollars and counting.
"There was absolutely no trickle-down benefit in providing these tax cuts to the wealthiest households – it provided little to no help for most working families," said Democratic Leader-Elect Scott Inman, D-Del City. "And now our elderly are bearing the brunt of these policies as they look for assistance in the most basic of necessities. Many who rely on and survive by meal-delivery services will now be looking at empty plates as we approach the winter months."
Representative Jerry McPeak, D-Warner succinctly summed up his position with the following statement, "Here's the truth – the Republicans cut taxes for the rich; people should know that is why old folks will not be eating."
As senior nutrition programs across the state face a critical lack of funding, House leadership holds a surplus capable of shoring up the nutrition program's deficit of $7.4 million. As these millions sit unused, the Democratic Caucus calls on House Republican leadership for a more responsible and ultimately more ethical use of taxpayer money by funding meal delivery programs.
"We have almost a $7 million surplus in the House, which could be used at this critical time – why isn't it?" said Floor Leader Brown.
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