Oklahoma Constitution Article X: REVENUE AND TAXATION
Oklahoma Constitution – Article X: Revenue and Taxation – Summary
Article X of the Oklahoma Constitution outlines the framework for taxation, public revenue, and financial management within the state. It includes provisions on how the state can raise revenue, impose taxes, manage public debt, and fund essential services.
🔑 Key Sections and Provisions of Article X:
Taxing Power (Section 1)
The state has the power to tax for revenue, provided it is exercised uniformly and fairly.
Purpose of Taxes (Section 2)
Taxes must only be levied for public purposes.
Exemptions from Taxation (Sections 5-6A)
Certain property, such as that used for religious, charitable, educational, or governmental purposes, is exempt from taxation.
Veterans and their families may receive property tax exemptions.
Ad Valorem Tax Limitations (Sections 9, 9A, 10, etc.)
Sets limits on property tax rates (millage) that local governments can impose unless approved by voters.
Allows for additional levies under specific conditions like school funding or emergencies.
Income and Sales Taxes
The Constitution permits income and sales taxation, but specific procedures and limitations apply (governed more through legislation).
School Funding (Sections 9, 10, 10A, 10B)
Property taxes contribute to local school funding.
Equalization and funding formulas are outlined to ensure support across districts.
State Indebtedness (Sections 23–25)
Strict limits on the amount of state debt that can be incurred without a vote of the people.
Bonds for capital improvements and emergencies require constitutional authority.
Sinking Funds (Section 28)
Local governments must maintain a sinking fund to retire public debt.
Gross Production Taxes (Section 12A)
A special tax on oil, gas, and mineral production, with revenues often dedicated to specific public purposes.
Use of Revenue (Section 55)
No money shall be paid out of the State Treasury without a specific appropriation by law.
Special Funds (e.g., Tobacco Settlement, Rainy Day Fund)
Revenues from specific sources may be placed into dedicated funds to ensure stability or support healthcare and education.
📌 Important Principles:
Voter Approval: Many tax increases or new taxes require public approval.
Equity and Uniformity: Taxes must be equal and uniform across similar classes of property or income.
Debt Control: Strong safeguards exist to prevent excessive public debt.
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