The Legislature adjourned sine die last week, but is counting on Oklahoma voters to approve several policies.
Four legislatively-referred state questions will appear on the ballot in 2026: two in August and two in November. Voter approval is necessary when lawmakers seek to amend the state constitution.
Proposed state questions to transfer money out of the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Fund and allow the Legislature to make changes to Medicaid expansion fizzled out in the final weeks in session. Democrats and far-right members of the Senate opposed efforts to place these questions on the low-turnout August ballot.
Here’s a look at the questions the Legislature wants voters to decide:
- State Question 844: This question would require the Legislature to set a reimbursement rate for local governments and districts that lose revenue due to Oklahoma’s property tax exemption for manufacturing facilities. It will appear on the August 25 ballot.
- State Question 845: This question proposes several changes to the Judicial Nominating Commission, including extending term limits from six to 12 years and striking a requirement that certain members have no immediate family members who are attorneys. It will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot.
- State Question 846: This question would establish in the state constitution that voters must present identification when voting. The Legislature would have the authority to specify what qualifies as proof of identity. It will appear on the August 25 ballot.
- State Question 847: This question proposes reducing the annual property tax increase cap for homestead properties from 3% to 1.75%. For other properties, the rate cap would decrease from 5% to 4%. It will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot.
All Oklahoma voters are eligible to vote on every state question.
Republished from Oklahoma Watch
