 |
|
 |
|
Legislative Issues
2005 Key Legislative Issues Position Statement
Workers’ Compensation Reform
This one single issue continues to cripple Oklahoma’s opportunity to compete economically in the region. Our rates for workers’ compensation are one of the highest in the region, with the lowest amount of benefit going to the employee. It is our position that in order to achieve meaningful reform of our workers’ compensation system, we should achieve a minimum of 15% reduction in costs.
Tort Reform
The failure to impact significant tort reform has impacted virtually every aspect of our community and our state. It continues to threaten our citizen’s ability to access healthcare. It is our position that the language contained in HB 2047 represents genuine reform, and, for the most part, that language must be included in any final bill for our State to experience the benefits of true tort reform.
Medicaid Enhancement
The hospital in our community is a key driver of our economic success. At the same time our hospital provides care for a significant Medicaid population and does so at a loss. HB 1617 provides an opportunity to significantly increase the reimbursement Oklahoma hospitals receive that take care of Medicaid patients, without taxing our citizens or by increasing State appropriations. We strongly urge the passage of HB 1617 in its original form. We hope HB 1617 will not be used as a vehicle to advance other issues that could jeopardize its passage.
Tuition Equalization Grant Program
The greater Shawnee area is home to two private universities that contribute much to our economy and quality of life. We fully support any advancement of the Tuition Equalization Grant Program, and encourage the State Regents to be generous in funding this program.
Nancy Keith |
 |

Home | Community
| News | Economic
Development | Legislative Issues |
Small Business Resources | About
Us | Links

Convention
and Visitor Bureau | Downtown
Shawnee | City
of Shawnee | Shawnee
Economic Development Foundation

©2006 The Greater Shawnee Area Chamber of Commerce | Web site by Back40
|