School district boards of education; modifying terms of office for chair and board members; establishing limit on terms of office. Effective date. Emergency.
Impact
The bill modifies existing sections within Oklahoma education law - specifically 70 O.S. 2021, Sections 5-107A and 5-107B, which detail election processes and term structures for school board members. If enacted, these changes would impact not only how long individuals can serve but also how boards elect their chairs and manage transitions of power. The effective date of the amendments is set for July 1, 2024, with an emergency declared for immediate implementation upon passage, reflecting urgency in addressing these governance issues.
Summary
Senate Bill 1366, introduced by Senator Kristen Thompson, seeks to amend the provisions governing the election and terms of office for members of school district boards of education in Oklahoma. One of the key aspects of this bill is the establishment of a limit on the number of terms a board member may serve, which will be capped at six terms for board members serving after the effective date of the act. This proposal aims to introduce more periodic turnover on school boards, promoting fresh perspectives and reducing potential stagnancy in leadership roles.
Contention
While the measure is anticipated to drive changes towards effective governance in local education systems, several points of contention could arise during discussions. Supporters of term limits argue it would enhance accountability and ensure that boards better reflect the communities they serve by facilitating the entry of new members. However, opponents might express concerns over the destabilizing effect that frequent turnover could have on board cohesion and institutional knowledge, which are critical for effective decision-making and governance in educational settings.
Boards of education; modifying term of office of school district and technology center school district board of education members. Effective date. Emergency.
Elections; municipal elections; modifying dates; school districts and board of education; modifying terms; continuing education requirements; effective date.
State employee health insurance; funding to provide flexible benefit allowance; professional risk management program; continuance of health and dental insurance benefits; rates and benefits; disability insurance program for state employees; collections; flexible benefit revolving fund; flexible benefit dollars in the State Employees Benefits Act; effective date.
Teacher pay; repealing the minimum salary schedule for certified school personnel; adding provisions to salary schedules adopted by boards of education. Effective date. Emergency.
Public finance; creating the Oklahoma Public Infrastructure Districts Act; allowing for the implementation of public infrastructure districts in Oklahoma. Effective date.
Public finance; creating the Oklahoma Public Infrastructure Districts Act; allowing for the implementation of public infrastructure districts in Oklahoma. Effective date.