OKLAHOMA CITY – The House today passed a measure that will assure when local residents vote to increase their taxes for specific purposes – such as police department budgets – those funds are spent as intended. If they are redirected or reduced, this bill will ensure the matter is taken back to a vote of the people.

Senate Bill 825 was authored in the House by Rep. Kevin West, R-Moore. A number of constituents from his House District 54 were in the House gallery when the measure passed.

“It is for these very people that this bill is so important,” West said. “Our constituents deserve transparency for how their taxpayer dollars are spent. When citizens vote to increase their taxes, the funds should be used as specified. If they need to be used for another purpose, the matter should be brought to another vote of the people.”

Sen. Rob Standridge, R-Norman, is the Senate author of the bill.

“I want to thank Representative Kevin West for his work on this legislation, and the members of both chambers who supported Senate Bill 825,” Standridge said.  “If the citizens have approved a tax increase for public safety, then they should have a say before any changes are made.  This legislation ensures the will of those voters is honored.”

SB 825 passed the House with a vote of 75-16. It has now been sent to the governor for his consideration of signing it into law.