A new survey of 166 U.S. economists found broad concern that higher minimum wages could reduce youth jobs, increase automation and make it harder for small businesses to stay open.
Senate Bill 985 creates a framework to connect Oklahoma schools with locally produced agricultural products.
The national unemployment rate held steady at 4.3%, while job gains were concentrated in health care, transportation and warehousing, and retail.
State Chamber staff discussed Oklahoma Competes, economic competitiveness and the potential business impacts of upcoming state questions.
The Oklahoma Farm Bureau publication warns the minimum wage proposal could raise costs for farmers, ranchers, small businesses and consumers.
The Chamber says the proposal’s phased wage increases, expanded coverage and automatic CPI-W escalator could create long-term cost pressure for Oklahoma businesses.
The Oklahoma City senator was recognized for her advocacy on public education, literacy and teacher support.
The State Chamber’s vice president of government affairs met with Leadership Elk City Class XII during the group’s legislative day at the Oklahoma State Capitol.
The report says current and former municipal officials are raising concerns that wage mandates could lead to higher taxes, utility rates or service cuts.
The Oklahoma Supreme Court declined to review Mejia v. Seaboard Foods, leaving in place for now a lower-court ruling that business advocates say could erode the workers’ compensation “grand bargain.”
