Oklahoma House Bill HB2257

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Revenue and taxation; aircraft excise tax; apportionment; Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission Revolving Fund; effective date; emergency.

Impact

If enacted, HB2257 would redirect all revenues from aircraft excise taxes to the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission, eliminating the previous policy of dividing revenues between this commission and the General Revenue Fund. The implications of this policy change could lead to increased funding for aviation initiatives regulated by the Aeronautics Commission. This shift may enhance the state's ability to support aviation infrastructure, promote aviation-related businesses, and improve overall air travel safety and efficiency in Oklahoma.

Summary

House Bill 2257 is a legislative proposal focused on the apportionment of aircraft excise tax revenue in the state of Oklahoma. It amends Section 6005 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to the distribution of revenue derived from aircraft excise taxes. The bill seeks to modify the current structure of how these revenues are allocated, emphasizing a shift to funneling 100% of the revenue into the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission Revolving Fund starting from the fiscal year 2021, reflecting a significant change in funding priorities for aviation-related activities within the state.

Contention

The bill's rapid advancement through the legislative process has sparked debates regarding the allocation of state resources and priorities. Supporters argue that a dedicated funding stream for the Aeronautics Commission will enhance the state's aviation sector, thereby facilitating economic growth and business development. However, there are concerns regarding the withdrawal of funds from the General Revenue Fund, which might impact other essential services funded by these resources. Critics of the bill fear that prioritizing aviation funding at the expense of other budgets may lead to imbalances in state resource distribution that could affect various programs and services across Oklahoma.