Oklahoma Senate Bill SB627

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Higher education; prohibiting certain institutions from taking certain actions due to a student's pregnancy. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The bill mandates that institutions must provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant students. This includes allowances for health and safety concerns, flexibility in making up missed tests or assignments, and extensions on examination preparation timelines. Such provisions are designed to support students during their pregnancy and post-birth, enabling them to maintain their educational standing and pursue their academic goals.

Summary

Senate Bill 627 establishes new regulations for higher education institutions in Oklahoma regarding the treatment of students who are pregnant. The bill prohibits institutions within the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education and private accredited higher learning institutions from requiring students to take leave or withdraw from their programs solely due to pregnancy. This legislation aims to ensure that pregnant students can continue their education without facing discrimination or undue pressure to alter their academic pursuits due to their condition.

Contention

While the bill seeks to protect the rights of pregnant students, discussions surrounding SB627 highlight potential contention regarding the breadth and implementation of these accommodations. Critics may express concerns about how effectively institutions will adopt the proposed measures and whether they truly ensure a supportive environment for all pregnant students. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a crucial step in addressing pregnancy discrimination within higher education and facilitating a more inclusive academic landscape.