Oklahoma House Bill HB1775

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 2/25/21
• Engrossed: 3/4/21
• Refer: 3/15/21
• Report Pass: 4/6/21
• Enrolled: 5/4/21
• Passed: 5/10/21

Caption

Education; prohibiting certain training for students; prohibiting courses from including certain concept; effective date; emergency.

Impact

The passage of HB 1775 would significantly alter the educational landscape in Oklahoma by restricting how public institutions can approach training and discussions around diversity and inclusion. The bill endeavors to eliminate concepts that suggest inherent superiority or inferiority based on race or sex. It aims to prevent students from being subjected to teaching that could lead to perceived discomfort related to their identity or historical context. This bill may shape the curricula and training modules across higher education institutions, potentially stifling discussions on race and bias.

Summary

House Bill 1775 addresses the requirements and regulations regarding training and counseling in institutions of higher education in Oklahoma. The bill prohibits mandatory gender or sexual diversity training or counseling for enrolled students while allowing for voluntary participation. It also specifically bans any orientation or requirement that presents issues of race or sex stereotyping. The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education are tasked with creating rules for the implementation of these provisions, subject to legislative approval.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 1775 is highly polarized. Supporters applaud the bill as a means to protect students from what they perceive as indoctrination in mandatory diversity training, viewing it as a reinforcement of individual rights and freedoms. Conversely, critics express concerns that the bill undermines the efforts to foster an inclusive and equitable environment in educational settings. They worry that preventing discussions around race and diversity will limit the ability of educational institutions to prepare students for a diverse workforce.

Contention

Key points of contention include the definition and scope of what constitutes 'mandatory' training and the implications of banning certain educational concepts. Critics argue that by restricting discussions on race and sex, the bill effectively minimizes critical conversations necessary for understanding systemic inequities. Supporters counter that the bill prevents divisive narratives and promotes an educational environment focused on merit and personal responsibility. The framing of the bill raises fundamental questions about the role of education in addressing societal issues and the balance between individual freedoms and collective understanding.