Oklahoma Senate Bill SB70

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 2/18/21
• Engrossed: 3/10/21
• Refer: 3/22/21
• Report Pass: 4/8/21

Caption

Higher education; modifying eligibility for in-state status for certain veterans. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The passage of SB70 is expected to have a beneficial impact on military families residing in Oklahoma, allowing more dependents of active-duty service members and veterans to access education at the lower in-state tuition rates. This is particularly significant for military families whose home state may not be Oklahoma but who are stationed in the state. By allowing these family members to gain in-state status, it promotes educational equity and supports the transition of military families in their educational pursuits.

Summary

SB70 aims to modify the eligibility criteria for in-state tuition status at public institutions within the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education for certain dependents of military personnel. The bill extends in-state status to dependent children and spouses of active-duty military personnel, military reservists on active duty, and those who have been discharged from military service within a specified time frame. This change aims to ease the financial burden on military families and provide them with equal educational opportunities regardless of residency.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB70 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among legislators concerned with the welfare of military families. It aligns with broader national initiatives to support veterans and active military personnel in higher education. While some critics may argue about the implications for residency requirements, the overall atmosphere is one of recognition for the sacrifices made by military personnel and an understanding of the accompanying needs for family support.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise regarding the broader implications of extending in-state tuition status to these groups, particularly in terms of existing residency laws and the impact on state funding for higher education. Some detractors could view these changes as decreasing the state's ability to offer financial support to local residents or question how it aligns with existing legislative frameworks. Nevertheless, advocates for the bill emphasize the importance of supporting military families and veterans as a justifiable and necessary action.