Legislature Convenes Special Session To Complete State Budget

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Oklahoma Legislature convenes a special session to finish work on the state budget before the new fiscal year begins on July 1st.<br/><br/>With lawmakers facing a constitutional

Thursday, May 25th 2006, 1:28 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Oklahoma Legislature convenes a special session to finish work on the state budget before the new fiscal year begins on July 1st.

With lawmakers facing a constitutional deadline to adjourn their regular session today at 5 PM, Governor Brad Henry ordered the special session for lawmakers to continue working on the budget and avoid a possible government shutdown.

Henry said Thursday he remained cautiously optimistic that House and Senate leaders can reach a budget agreement by today.

State House Republicans and Senate Democrats are at odds over tax relief and spending priorities.

State House Speaker Todd Hiett says he's disappointed the budget plan hasn't been finalized and says there shouldn't be foot-dragging on the issue.

State Senate President Pro Tem Mike Morgan says constructive and positive discussions are in the works and he's confident an agreement will be reached.

Henry's order authorizes lawmakers to consider revenue, tax relief, appropriations and other state budget matters.