Perspectives: Sam’s Perspective – SQ 779

Hello, I’m Sam Jones.

One of the issues facing voters in the November election is State Question 779. We are told that if approved, it would increase the sales and use tax by one cent on the dollar to provide revenue for the Education Improvement Fund. We are also told that it would require a minimum $5,000 salary increase for teachers and would not be used to increase the salaries of school superintendents or add to superintendent positions.

You would think that Oklahomans would be ready to show support for the measure. However, it turns out there is a very vocal opposition to the measure. In the end, there are strong argument for both sides. So, RSU TV has decided to present both sides in an effort to better inform you, the voting public on the issue.

My college John Durkee will talk with OU President David Boren, who is supporting the measure. I will be talking with Jim Thomas, City Manager of Claremore, who is opposed to the measure.

It is our sincere hope that when we have finished, you will not only be better prepared to vote, but that you ‘will’ vote.

And that’s my Perspective.