Special session continues; Tulsans on edge for what's to come

TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — Crisis continues at the State Capitol.

Lawmakers are going round and round to try and get a grip on Oklahoma's $215 million budget hole.

"Tension is incredibly high for the Senate, the Governor and everybody here at the Capitol," said Muskgoee Representative Avery Frix. "They want to see a solution, they want to see us get out of special session and move on."

Lawmakers were close to a solution last week with a funding bill. It would have increased cigarette, motor fuel, alcohol, oil and gas well taxes -- with hopes it would help the state budget crisis.

The bill failed, 71 to 28. That's just six votes shy of the supermajority required to pass new taxes.

The tax plan had the support from the Senate and Governor Mary Fallin. She says she's disappointed by the failed attempt.

"Our brand and our image as a state is suffering and it's embarrassing," she said.

Folks right here in Green Country are feeling no different.

“Special session means we spend some more money," said concerned citizen Joe Shelton. "They need to be able to come to an agreement. they need to work through the issues and do what’s best for Oklahoma.“

“It's really embarrassing that they're not able to get together and end this problem," added concerned citizen Cynthia Browne. "So much is at stake right now."

While fixing a budget hole isn't exactly easy, some people think lawmakers need to learn to compromise.

“Maybe they should get rid of duplicate services or maybe services that are dated that really aren’t required that much anymore," said Shelton.

“They have to come together and work this thing out for the state of Oklahoma," said Browne.

Frix says next session could see a shortfall of $400 million if problems continue right now.

"That was one of the reasons why many wanted to pass the package on Wednesday, putting us on a firm foundation for next session," he said.