The 5 State Questions explained
In addition to electing state and local leaders as well as members of congress, Oklahoma voters this November will also decide five State Questions covering issues from education funding to how the state’s top leaders are chosen. La Semana explains each of the questions and gives our recommendations on whether the questions should be voted up or down.
SQ 793 would allow optometrists and opticians to operate in retail establishments, such as Walmart, Costco, or Target. Proponents of the measure point out that Oklahoma is one of just three states to prohibit opticians and optometrists from operating inside of large retailers and insist that
passage of SQ 793 would result in lower eye care costs, especially for the majority of Oklahomans who have no vision insurance. Opponents claim that SQ 793 has the potential to adversely affect the quality of eye care because retailers will be able to dictate which procedures are offered. La Semana believes the cost benefits to consumers outweigh the other concerns and recommends a “Yes” vote on SQ 793.
SQ 794, known as “Marsy’s Law,” would put a number of additional victims’ rights into the Oklahoma Constitution. Supporters say the rights are designed to give victims of crime and their families the same rights as the accused. If enacted, the proposal would expand the court proceedings at which victims are able to speak, increase notification requirements, give victims more access to prosecutors, and would curtail some rights already guaranteed to defendants. Opponents say the measure is well intentioned but poorly written, would significantly increase costs of court proceedings and could be federally unconstitutional. La Semana recommends a “No” vote on SQ 794.
SQ 798 seeks to amend the Oklahoma Constitution to allow the governor and lieutenant governor to be elected together on one ticket. Those who support this proposed amendment say it would permit a more unified executive branch of state government, while opponents say it would limit the choice of Oklahoma voters. La Semana opposes the measure and urges readers to vote “No” on SQ 798.
SQ 800 would create the “Oklahoma Vision Fund” by diverting five percent of the collections from the gross production tax on oil and gas. Proponents believe it would help cover future expenses by establishing an investment fund, the proceeds from which could be used in different ways. Opponents say this would take badly needed money away from the general revenue fund and point out the state already has “Rainy Day Fund.” La Semana agrees with the opposition and recommends a “No” vote on SQ 800.
SQ 801 would eliminate existing restrictions on how school districts may use property tax dollars. Supporters claim that school districts are best able to decide how to spend property tax revenue, while opponents insist those restrictions are in place to ensure greater equality among districts regardless of their ability to generate large amounts of property tax income. Those against the measure believe it would take away accountability from the state legislature, place districts in unreasonably difficult positions, and will lead to greater educational disparity. La Semana believes this is a dangerous measure and strongly urges its readers to vote “No” on SQ 801. (La Semana)