Oklahoma Senate Bill SB474

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Schools; directing school district boards of education to adopt a policy regarding student participation in released time courses. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The enactment of SB 474 is poised to influence existing educational statutes by incorporating provisions that allow for religious instruction during school hours. This will require school districts to develop clear policies ensuring that no school resources or personnel are involved in the administration of these released time courses. Furthermore, the policy emphasizes independence from the school district in that the courses are not to be included in school schedules or funded by district funds, positioning the instruction as private and outside the formal educational system.

Summary

Senate Bill 474 introduces provisions for 'released time courses' where students can be excused from school to attend courses in religious or moral instruction provided by independent entities. This bill mandates that each school district board of education adopt a policy allowing a student to miss up to three class periods a week, with a cap of 125 periods annually. Parent or legal guardian consent is required for each student participating in such courses, ensuring that participation remains voluntary and not affiliated with the school district's curriculum.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB 474 could stem from concerns regarding the separation of church and state as it pertains to the education system. Critics may argue that allowing religious courses during school hours, even with parental consent, blurs the lines of public education's secular nature. Furthermore, the requirement that instructors of these courses need not be licensed teachers raises questions about the quality of education being provided. Advocates for the bill may see it as a necessary step to offer moral education alternatives, whereas opponents fear it might infringe upon students' educational rights and responsibilities.