Oklahoma House Bill HB1905

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Schools; creating the Preventing Religious Indoctrination from Corrupting Education (PRICE) Act; prohibiting certain private schools from using state funds for religious instruction or activities; effective date.

Impact

If enacted, HB1905 would modify Section 11-101 of Title 70 in the Oklahoma Statutes, clearly detailing the restrictions on religious doctrine in public education. The bill further establishes that students attending private schools using state funds cannot be compelled to participate in any religious activities, including prayer or Bible study. Additionally, it prohibits these private institutions from rejecting applicants based on their religious beliefs or the absence thereof. Consequently, this law would reinforce the separation of church and state in education and protect the rights of students from diverse religious backgrounds.

Summary

House Bill 1905, known as the Preventing Religious Indoctrination from Corrupting Education (PRICE) Act, seeks to amend the existing educational laws in Oklahoma by prohibiting certain private schools that receive state funds from using those funds for religious instruction or activities. This bill aims to ensure that education remains secular in nature and free from sectarian or religious doctrine within public schools. By doing so, it attempts to address concerns regarding the use of public funds to support religious education in private institutions.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HB1905. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for maintaining the integrity of public education and ensuring equal access for all students, irrespective of their religious affiliations. They contend that public funds should not support religious culture in education. On the other hand, opponents of the bill argue that such restrictions may impinge on the rights of private religious schools to operate according to their beliefs. They express concerns about the implications of restricting religious expression in an educational setting and advocate for parental control over the religious education of their children.