Oklahoma Senate Bill SB430

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program; requiring administration of certain assessments. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The implications of SB430 on state laws include a potential expansion of the Lindsey Nicole Henry Program, which provides financial assistance to parents who choose private education for their children with disabilities. By mandating assessments, the bill endeavors to ensure that students receive appropriate educational services and support while still offering parents the freedom to choose educational settings that meet their children's unique needs. The legislation mandates that private schools participating in the program comply with specific state regulations, potentially improving the quality and oversight of private education for students with disabilities.

Summary

Senate Bill 430, named the Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program, aims to enhance educational opportunities for students with disabilities in Oklahoma. This legislative proposal amends the eligibility criteria for the scholarship program, which allows the parents or legal guardians of students with disabilities to enroll their children in private educational institutions with the aid of state-funded scholarships. A significant change under this bill is the requirement for participating private schools to administer certain assessments to students benefiting from the scholarship, thereby enhancing educational accountability and oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB430 include concerns over the implications of regulatory requirements on private schools' operations and the potential for increased state control over private education. Opponents argue that the requirement for private schools to administer assessments may further complicate their operations and possibly deter some schools from participating in the scholarship program. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the financial responsibilities placed upon parents, who must ensure their child has regular contact with private school teachers, which could create barriers for some families in accessing these educational opportunities.