Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1592

Introduced

2/5/24

Refer

2/6/24

Report Pass

2/27/24

Engrossed

3/18/24

Refer

3/25/24

Report Pass

3/25/24

Enrolled

4/25/24

Passed

4/30/24

Caption

Higher education; modifying makeup of the Board of Trustees for Oklahoma State University/Tulsa; requiring member to be appointed by certain chair. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The bill impacts state laws governing higher education by updating the statutes that guide the appointment and responsibilities of the Board of Trustees at Oklahoma State University/Tulsa. By eliminating outdated provisions associated with the Board of Regents of Rogers University and modifying who may serve on the Board of Trustees, the legislation aims to enhance the responsiveness of OSU Tulsa to local educational needs and to improve operational efficiency. The changes particularly focus on integrating effective governance while adhering to contemporary higher education requirements.

Summary

Senate Bill 1592, introduced by Senators Haste and Moore, is an act relating to higher education in Oklahoma that amends the composition and governance of the Board of Trustees for Oklahoma State University/Tulsa. The bill modifies the makeup of the board, requiring certain members to be appointed by specific chairs, while also allowing for voting, ex officio members on the board. The intent behind these changes is to streamline oversight and management for better governance of the university's operations, ensuring that the leadership structure is compliant with current statutory language and operational needs.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB1592 appears to be largely positive among supporters who view the restructuring as a necessary evolution for Oklahoma's higher education governance. Advocates argue that the amendments will lead to more relevant oversight and commitment to the educational needs of the Tulsa area. However, there may be some lingering concerns among stakeholders about the transitional implications of governance shifts and the potential for disruption in established operational practices.

Contention

While the bill appears to have broad support, potential points of contention include debate surrounding the degree of governance control exerted by the Board of Regents for the A&M Colleges over OSU Tulsa and the implications of appointing members from overlapping boards. Seeking clarity on these governance mechanisms is essential to mitigate concerns about autonomy and effectiveness in local decision-making processes. Discussions in legislative settings may reflect apprehensions regarding maintaining a balanced representation while fulfilling the educational mission of OSU Tulsa.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB704

Oklahoma State University Medical Authority; modifying membership of the Authority; modifying powers and duties of the Authority and the Oklahoma State University Medical Trust. Effective date.

OK SB167

Higher education; removing language prohibiting offering of certain courses by certain institutions. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB1903

Schools; State Board of Education; modifying membership of the Board; requiring five-year terms for certain members; effective date.

OK SB745

Incentive Evaluation Commission; modifying terms of appointment; modifying membership; modifying frequency of evaluations; requiring development of schedule. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB2263

Oklahoma Turnpike Authority; modifying membership of the Authority; modifying term length; modifying actions regarding removal of appointive members; prohibiting members from participating in certain votes; effective date.

OK HB1481

Oklahoma Department of Transportation; modifying makeup of the Commission; modifying appointment process; effective date.

OK HB2562

Schools; State Board of Education; modifying membership of the Board; effective date.

OK HB2160

Oklahoma State University Medical Authority; members; qualifications; powers and duties; Oklahoma State University Medical Trust; increasing certain asset limit; effective date.

OK SB299

Oklahoma Advisory Council on Indian Education; recreating council until certain date; modifying appointment authority. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB939

State government; modifying number of terms Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority board members may serve. Effective date.