Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB3416

Introduced

2/7/22

Refer

2/8/22

Refer

2/8/22

Caption

Higher education; Hunger-free Campus Grant Program; Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education; effective date; emergency.

Impact

The legislation empowers the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to administer a Hunger-free Campus Grant Pilot Program. Institutions can apply for funding contingent upon their commitment to meet program guidelines that include creating a hunger task force and facilitating access to programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. A strategic plan must be developed to ensure basic needs are met for students by 2030, with a focus on establishing food pantries and meal-sharing initiatives across campuses.

Summary

House Bill 3416, introduced in the Oklahoma legislature, aims to address food insecurity among students at public institutions of higher education through the establishment of the Hunger-free Campus Act. This act designates certain campuses as 'hunger-free' based on specific criteria, enabling them to receive grant funding from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. The funding is intended to assist in the implementation of programs that support students facing financial hardships and enhance their access to nutritional resources.

Contention

While the bill is largely supported for its goal of improving student welfare, concerns may arise regarding the allocation of resources and the effectiveness of the implemented strategies. Opposition could stem from debates on how well the state can manage and distribute the funds, as well as skepticism about the long-term impact of these hunger-free campus initiatives on student well-being. The bill's requirement for annual reporting to the Governor and Legislature aims to ensure accountability and transparency in measuring its success.