TABOR and AGRICULTURE
The so-called "Taxpayer's Bill of Rights" (TABOR) would restrict government spending by limiting the annual increase to the growth in the rate of inflation and population. Colorado, which has lived with TABOR since 1992, offers harsh lessons on the inevitable effects of limiting spending in this way. The mechanics of TABOR squeeze certain sectors very hard, particularly agriculture.
OKLAHOMA is an agriculturally productive state, but challenges remain for the industry:
- The number of ranches with cattle herds in Oklahoma is 56,000. The state has remained brucellosis free for two years, but the threat continues as Texas found a positive herd this past year. Brucellosis is an infectious disease passed among animals. The economic impact of this disease on a state and ranchers is significant.
- Wildfires have consumed hundreds of thousands of acres of land and more than 250 homes and businesses. Rural fire departments and State Department of Agriculture fire fighters rely on state resources to combat these emergencies to save lives and property.
- In response to the 1930s Dust Bowl, Oklahoma constructed over 2,100 upstream flood control dams. Today, these structures are in need of rehabilitation. Failing to do so will result in flooding of property and tremendous water run-off. State and local funds are needed to match federal funds allocated for this program.
- Other issues include water quality concerns and the spread of invasive species like the eastern red cedar. State supported programs offer opportunities for land owners to address these issues that have far reaching consequences for the entire population of Oklahoma.
COLORADO has seen services for the agriculture community deteriorate since TABOR's passage
- The Colorado Department of Agriculture's total appropriation was reduced by nearly 50%.
- In 2002, the state cut the budget for the Agricultural Extension Service by approximately 18%. By 2005, the Extension Service began charging fees for such popular programs as statewide 4-H clubs, Master Gardener accreditation and agriculture technical assistance for ranchers and farmers.
- Prior to FY 2002, the state contributed product inspection funding to help farmers. With the loss of state support, local farmers are burdened with the cost of these inspections for the safety of the public.
- The Colorado Conservation Board's budget was reduced by almost $800,000. As a result, technical assistance programs, local conservation district operations funding, soil surveys services, matching cost-share conservation grants, and the Noxious Weed Grant programs were eliminated.
- To keep other agriculture programs funded, the Legislature raided various rural economic development grant fund programs.
Under TABOR, Oklahoma would lack the resources to provide assistance to our farmers and ranchers as well as providing the needed funds for vital consumer protection programs.