Free Market Friday: Some lawmakers prefer gambling over education
The Journal Record
Lawmakers prioritized gambling subsidies over education funding despite Oklahoma's poor school rankings.Summary
Oklahoma ranked 50th in public schools and 10th in gambling addiction, yet lawmakers voted to subsidize gambling while opposing education bills. While efforts like third-grade retention are positive, the state's Parental Choice Tax Credit program provides significant support for private school education. However, House Bill 3705 increased school-choice credits to $275 million, while House Bill 4432 exempted gambling losses from tax deductions. Notably, 17 House members and 7 Senate members voted against educational opportunity but supported gambling subsidies. The author argues that the state needs better educational outcomes more than it needs to subsidize high-stakes gambling.
(Source：The Journal Record)