Higher education; providing a room and board waiver to students who participate in or receive certain scholarship from Reserve Officer Training Corps. Effective date. Emergency.
Impact
The proposed changes under SB1360 will have a significant impact on the state’s education laws, particularly those governing residency requirements for tuition purposes. By allowing military-connected individuals to establish in-state status more easily, the bill enhances educational opportunities for these students, which might encourage more military families to settle in Oklahoma. The legislation requires that participants maintain good academic standing and be enrolled in programs within the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education to retain their eligibility.
Summary
Senate Bill 1360 aims to amend existing legislation concerning in-state tuition eligibility for certain students in Oklahoma. The bill specifies that students who are dependents or spouses of active military service members, including those in the uniformed services on active duty or reserve status, are eligible for in-state tuition status regardless of their residency. This initiative seeks to provide support for military families and enhance their access to higher education within the state.
Contention
Discussion surrounding SB1360 has highlighted both support and concerns. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary recognition of the sacrifices made by military families and provides essential support to aid their educational pursuits. However, some opponents express concern regarding the implications for state-funded resources, such as how these waivers may increase demands on already limited financial aid and housing options within state educational institutions.
Higher education; allowing certain institutions of higher education to require employees to complete certain training; providing for optional training. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; requiring school district boards of education to adopt policy allowing certain students to participate in certain activities; effective date; emergency.
Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program; providing certain qualifying score; providing eligibility for students who complete certain core curriculum. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; prohibiting certain schools from compelling participation in certain instruction, professional development, or training. Effective date. Emergency.
State Board of Education; requiring certain determination; providing procedure; providing limitation; and removing certain apportionments. Effective date. Emergency.
Postsecondary education; creating the Captain Steven L. Farley Goldstar Families Act; providing eligibility for certain tuition waivers. Effective date. Emergency.
Classification of felony offenses; creating the Oklahoma Crime Reclassification Act of 2024; requiring persons who commit criminal offenses to be classified in accordance with certain structure; codification; effective date.