Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1395

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/8/22

Caption

Higher education; requiring certain institutions to disclose that they are for-profit businesses. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The bill specifically affects for-profit education institutions, requiring them to emphasize their business nature prominently. By stipulating that this disclosure be in a font size equal to or larger than the surrounding text, the law aims to minimize any attempt to obscure this important piece of information. Institutions will have to adjust their marketing materials and contracts to comply with this new standard, which could lead to a broader cultural shift within the sector toward greater transparency.

Summary

Senate Bill 1395 mandates that for-profit private institutions of higher education in Oklahoma must disclose their for-profit status on their websites, promotional media, and in contracts for instruction. The intent of this legislation is to enhance transparency and ensure that prospective students and the public are aware that these educational institutions operate as for-profit entities. This requirement aims to protect consumers from misleading information that could influence their educational choices.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB1395 may arise concerning the balance between marketing practices of educational institutions and the protection of consumer rights. While proponents argue that informing students about the for-profit nature of these institutions is crucial for informed decision-making, critics may raise concerns about how such regulations could impact the ability of these institutions to attract students. The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education will be responsible for promulgating rules for implementation, which may invite further debates about the specifics of these regulations.