Revitalization Bills Clear House

By Jennifer Mock, The Daily Oklahoman

Mar. 14–Several bills approved by the House on Monday would work to revitalize rural Oklahoma, supporters say.

The legislation is part of a slate of measures recommended by the bipartisan Rural Economic Development Initiative started last year.

Supporters say the bills would attract new residents and businesses to counties and smaller towns in Oklahoma that have lost population.

The bills are:

House Bill 3126, by House Speaker Todd Hiett, R-Kellyville, creating the Come Home Oklahoma Act. The bill proposes a five-year income tax exemption to out-of-state residents who move to and buy houses in rural Oklahoma. The measure passed, 96-2.

HB 2628, by Rep. R.C. Pruett, D-Antlers, making it easier for rural employers to qualify for the Quality Jobs program. The bill passed, 93-5.

HB 2704, by Rep. Jeff Hickman, R-Dacoma, creates the Local Development Act to help new industries build needed access roads. The bill passed without opposition.

HB 2812, by Rep. Lee Denney, R-Cushing, extends a property tax exemption for retirement communities in rural areas. The bill passed without opposition.

HB 3079, by Rep. Lisa Billy, R-Purcell, provides assistance to programs for affordable housing in rural areas. The bill passed, 87-11.

The legislation goes to the Senate.

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