State Sen. Brian Bingman from Sapulpa was picked to lead the Senate for a third term Tuesday when both houses of the legislature met for the first time in 2015.
Lawmakers certified election results and elected leaders. Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb presided over the Senate meeting until Bingman was formally elected.
Speaking to his fellow lawmakers, Bingman said they should focus on economic growth.
"We should remain dedicated to reducing the burden of taxation on Oklahomans," Bingman said. "Our tax reform has directly contributed to economic growth, and further reducing the burden will promote a more vibrant economy and increase investment in our state."
Revenue estimates say although there’s enough growth to trigger an income tax cut for 2015, the state budget will be around $300 million short next fiscal year.
Bingman also said lawmakers have to get more dollars into Oklahoma classrooms this session.
"We also need to address our shortage of teachers in the classroom and make the profession a more attractive option for our best and brightest young people," Bingman said.
In the House, Rep. Jeff Hickman of Fairview will serve as speaker again. Cushing Republican Lee Denney is speaker pro tempore.
Representatives and senators briefly met in a joint session after each house's session concluded.
