FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 1, 2011

Bill to Protect Oklahoma Homeowners Killed by GOP Before Hearing

Rep. Joe Dorman (D-Rush Springs) drafted House Bill 2000 to protect homeowners from having a lien placed on their home when they have already paid their bill in full. As the law stands right now, a homeowner can pay a contractor in full, but if a contractor fails to pay a third party, that third party can place a lien on the homeowner, thus forcing the homeowner to pay twice for services rendered.

Rep. Dorman’s attempt to remedy this injustice toward hardworking Oklahoma homeowners was squelched yesterday. Todd Goodman, Chairman of the Oklahoma Democratic Party, said this is another example of legislators working against Oklahomans’ best interests.

“The Republican-led House Judiciary Committee killed this bill because they know if there’s a hearing, and Republicans vote against it like the lobbyists want, it would be a political liability,” Goodman said. “How would Republicans explain to voters why they aren’t protecting homeowners? So instead, the GOP leadership kills the bill to avoid a vote on record.  Those who killed the bill should be held accountable. This is yet another backdoor assault on hardworking Oklahoma homeowners who shouldn’t be forced to pay twice.  It is absurd the lengths some go in order to please the lobbyists bringing them lunches.”

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