Voters in Oklahoma are deciding on two state questions on this election day.
Both state questions are legislatively referred constitutional amendments, with SQ 845 aimed at altering how the state selects judges and SQ 847 limits property tax increases.
State Question 845
Judicial Nominating Commission Restructuring
State Question 845 focuses on the structure and operation of Oklahoma’s Judicial Nominating Commission. The 15-member commission screens candidates for judicial vacancies across the state.
If approved, the constitutional amendment would:
- Update District Requirements: Update appointment geographic requirements so members reflect current U.S. congressional districts rather than boundaries established in 1967.
- Remove Party Limits: Eliminate the requirement that no more than three of the governor’s appointees belong to the same political party.
- Adjust Membership Terms: Allow commissioners to serve up to two consecutive six-year terms.
- Modify Member Qualifications: Remove provisions that restrict governor-appointed or at-large seats to non-lawyers or individuals without attorneys in their immediate family.
Proponents argue the changes modernize outdated district maps and bring greater flexibility to judicial appointments. Opponents express concern that removing non-lawyer restrictions and bipartisan balancing provisions could diminish judicial independence.
State Question 847
Lowering Property Tax Growth Caps
State Question 847 addresses the maximum annual increase allowed on property tax valuations for real estate statewide.
If passed, the measure would change current caps on fair cash value increases starting in tax year 2027:
- Homesteads & Agricultural Land: Lower the maximum annual increase cap from 3% to 1.75%.
- Commercial & Other Real Property: Lower the maximum annual growth limit for non-homestead properties (such as commercial buildings and rental housing) from 5% to 4%.
- Senior Homestead Exemption Restructuring: Replace the existing property value freeze for homeowners aged 65 and older with an income-based tiered cap schedule.
Supporters view SQ 847 as necessary tax relief to buffer homeowners and commercial owners against rising real estate values and inflation. Critics, like Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols and Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, said capping tax growth could reduce local revenue streams that support municipal services, county functions, and public school districts.
