Photo - David Rainbolt, an Oklahoma banker,  unveils reform and revenue measures at a news conference in the atrium of the Oklahoma History Center.  Frustrated by a legislative budget impasse that has stalled state progress, a statewide coalition of Oklahoma business and civic leaders (STEPUPOK) proposed a comprehensive solution Thursday, Jan. 11, 2018,  that would increase state revenues, fund $5,000 teacher pay raises and alter the structure of state and county government.  The proposal calls for raising gross production, motor fuel and cigarette taxes, while eliminating certain individual income tax deductions and loopholes.  The business leaders said their willingness to support the proposed revenue hikes is directly tied to lawmakers' willingness to vote for $5,000 teacher pay increases and embrace 10 reforms to the structure of state and county government, many of which also would require the public's approval through votes on constitutional amendments.  Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman
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