Oklahoma City, OK (March 3, 2010) – Following the announcement of an agreement to preserve Oklahoma's senior nutrition programs, Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair Todd Goodman released the following statement:

"I am proud of our Senate Democrats for persevering in their long fight to protect funding for senior nutrition programs. For months, Democrats have been calling attention to the appalling shutdowns of many senior nutrition centers across the state. They have been listening to the families affected by these shutdowns and have persisted in finding a solution that will restore funding.

"I am also grateful that Senate Republicans finally came to the table and agreed to do the right thing for our seniors. However, I am disappointed that it took so long for them to give this issue the attention it deserves. Democratic leaders had to make difficult decisions and bold moves in order to merely get Sen. Coffee's attention on this matter. An issue as clearly important as securing food for our seniors should never have required that much time or effort just to get Republican leaders to enter into negotiations.

"Though this compromise may not be perfect, it does ensure that our seniors will continue to have a lifeline in tough times. That's something we should always put ahead of political posturing."