A scientific poll of Oklahomans showed a large majority (68 percent) believe an educated and well-trained workforce is more important for attracting business than low-personal income tax rates.

Despite this shift in thinking, Oklahoma remains near the bottom of US states on per-student spending. The FY16 budget shows no increase in education spending.

From University of Oklahoma President, David L. Boren:

I am sorry to say that budgetary pressures because of falling state support are greater than ever. The state’s $600 million shortfall led to budget cuts of $4.6 million.

I am deeply concerned by the state’s shrinking share of the cost of educating our students. Income tax cuts alone, which amount to only $18 per year for the average Oklahoman have left the state with over $100 million less which could have been invested in education. This long-range revenue trend threatens the accessibility and affordability of higher education for many families and students. The chart {below} highlights the decreasing share of the state in funding our budget. The financial situation has required the University of Oklahoma {state flagship} to raise tuition and mandatory fees this year by 4.8%.

https://secure.ncte.org/library/NCTEFiles/Resources/PolicyResearch/June15-OK-HE.pdf