Communications Division
State Capitol
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105

For Immediate Release: March 4, 2004

Republican Floor Leader
Senator James A. Williamson

Senate GOP Leader Comments on Fallin’s Tax Plan

The Senate Republican leader praised Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin today for showing leadership in offering an alternative to Gov. Brad Henry’s proposed tobacco tax hike.

“I applaud the lieutenant governor for showing leadership in this debate. Lt. Gov. Fallin’s plan addresses the economic development issues that are missing from Gov. Henry’s plan, which is very important to Senate Republicans. Our caucus is concerned that unless we deal with both issues simultaneously, the tax increase will be strongly pushed by governor while the economic development will fall by the wayside,” said Senate GOP Leader James A. Williamson, R-Tulsa.

“I believe the Fallin plan is something that many Senate Republicans can potentially embrace. The best part of her plan is the total elimination of the state’s tax on capital gains. This unprecedented tax reform would significantly improve investment and job growth in Oklahoma,” he said.

For more information contact:
Senator James A. Williamson - (405) 521-5624