Battle Continues Over State Question 744 As Election Day Nears

NewsOn6.com

TULSA, Oklahoma -- State Question 744 is one of the most talked about measures on the ballot this November.

It would constitutionally require Oklahoma to spend the same amount per student as the regional average.

10/16/2010 Related Story: State Question 744 Supporters, Opponents Clash Over Commercial Characters

Supporters say without it, Oklahoma school budgets will be gutted next year. Opponents say with it, other state agencies are heading for bankruptcy.

"We feel that public education could use more money in Oklahoma, many members of our coalition do," Jeff Wilson, One Oklahoma Coalition, said on Six in the Morning Wednesday. "But we feel that State Question 744 is absolutely the wrong way to approach this."

Wilson called the measure "dangerous," saying it would either require huge increases in taxes or dramatic cuts in state services.

Oklahoma is 49th in the nation when it comes to student spending.

Tim Gilpin, from the State Board Of Education, said there's no alternative.

"State Question 744 is a positive measure," he said. "This is the best pro education measure Oklahoma has ever considered."

Supporters say the state has the money; it just needs to stop wasting it on special interest tax breaks. Opponents say it does not specify a funding source for the dollars, only the amount of money.

Read more about State Question 744 and other state questions on the ballot at NewsOn6.com/politics.