Opinion: The bill that would have increased the tax on cigarettes by $1.50 per package in Oklahoma was a bad bill, regardless of whether you are a smoker and were opposed or you’re someone who wanted the revenue for health care and urged passage.

In the beginning the funds were earmarked for health care, but the final cigarette bill (second “C” section) stated funds collected would be spent at the discretion of the Legislature. An interesting statement was made during debate on the budget that the cigarette tax would have helped fund the Department of Human Services.

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Rep. Jim Bridenstine

Congressman Jim Bridenstine, who is pursuing his third and final term in Congress, recently received the endorsement of Senator Tom Coburn. Senator Coburn’s full statement:

“Jim Bridenstine is a man of his word. He faces unrelenting pressure from the political elite in Washington, yet he has never wavered in his commitment to the First District or our country. His courageous voting record is proof that he cares more about the long term health of our nation than his own political career.”

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