Where Would Money Go If SQ 779 Passes?

Should we raise the state sales tax by a penny to pay for teacher raises and boost support for universities, vo-tech and early childhood education?

People on both sides of State Question 779 say teachers in our state need a raise, but they’re divided on how to make it happen.

A TV ad supporting 779 says, "For years, the politicians and special interests have blocked it, but finally, yes on 779 gives it to them."

"We have waited over ten years," said 779 supporter Suzanne Schreiber.

But a campaign ad against the question argues most of the money isn't going toward teacher raises.

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"Much of the money goes to higher education. Less than half goes to teachers," said professor and economist Steven Agee.

If state question 779 passes, the revenue will be divided four ways:

• About three percent (3.25%) will go toward Career and Technology Education.
• Eight percent (8%) goes to the State Department of Education, specifically for early childhood.
• About 19 percent (19.25%) would go to Higher Education.
• And nearly 70 percent (69.50%) is for common school districts.

That's the portion the teacher salary raises will come from.

Of the money allocated for common school districts, 86.33 percent will go toward giving every teacher in the state a $5,000 raise - that's 60 percent of the entire sales tax.

11/1/2016 Related Story: Understanding The State Questions On The Oklahoma Ballot

Accountant Brent Watson argues some Oklahomans wouldn't be able to afford the tax if it passes.

"I would not vote for a one percent sales tax increase for anything right now," he said.

Tulsa School Board member and mother of four Suzanne Schreiber said Oklahoma can't afford not to.

"There is only one way out of poverty, and that's an education, and the people of Oklahoma know that," she said.

You can find more about State Question 779 and all the other state questions here.