Statement from Democratic Leader Charlie Laster on Governor Henry’s Veto of HB 1975

Oklahoma State Senate

April 30, 2009

For Immediate Release
Contact: Amber England, Democratic Communications Director
Oklahoma State Senate

Statement from Democratic Leader Charlie Laster on Governor Henry’s Veto of HB 1975;

Says the Bill did Nothing but Protect the Powerful Insurance Industry

“We knew in January when Senate Republicans changed the rules to include special protection for one specific industry—the powerful insurance industry—we would be faced with a barrage of bills that would make it harder to make health care more affordable for Oklahoma families.

“House Bill 1975 is just one of many bills Republicans have shoved through the legislative process that would provide cover for insurance companies on the backs of Oklahoma families who are desperate to see the insurance coverage they pay for work for them.

“We are grateful to Governor Henry for vetoing this bill that did nothing more than make it harder for the Oklahoma Legislature to bring true insurance reform to this state.”