Oklahoma Senate Bill SB363

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/14/23

Caption

Higher education; prohibiting tuition and fee rates at certain institutions from exceeding rates of certain academic year. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

By capping tuition and fee increases at existing rates, SB363 seeks to alleviate financial burdens on students and their families. The measure intends to provide stability and affordability in higher education funding amidst rising costs associated with college attendance. It is expected to influence budget planning at universities, encouraging them to manage their operational costs more judiciously as they adapt to the regulatory changes imposed by the bill. The measure will take effect on July 1, 2023, signaling an immediate impact on the upcoming academic year.

Summary

Senate Bill 363 aims to regulate tuition and fee rates for institutions within the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education. The bill specifically amends Section 3218.14 of Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes to prohibit tuition and fee rates from exceeding those approved for the previous academic year, specifically the 2022-2023 academic year. This legislative measure reflects a desire to limit escalating costs for students and ensure financial predictability within the higher education system.

Contention

While the bill is generally supported for its consumer protection standpoint, there are concerns regarding its potential impact on institutional budgets and services. Some higher education advocates fear that limiting revenue from tuition hikes may constrain universities from maintaining their programs and services, which could negatively affect the quality of education provided. This discourse highlights a tension between fiscal responsibility for students and the operational sustainability of the institutions.