Higher education; prohibiting certain institutions from taking certain actions due to a student's pregnancy. Effective date. Emergency.
Impact
By mandating that institutions create and implement clear policies on pregnancy accommodations, SB627 directly affects the operational protocols within colleges and universities across Oklahoma. Institutions will now be required to consider multiple factors, such as allowing pregnant students to make up missed tests and assignments and providing necessary leave for examinations. This law highlights a commitment to uphold the rights of pregnant students, addressing previous gaps in protections in academic settings.
Summary
Senate Bill 627 introduces significant provisions aimed at protecting pregnant students within Oklahoma's higher education system. The bill prohibits educational institutions from mandating leaves of absence, withdrawals, or limiting studies solely due to pregnancy. It requires institutions to provide reasonable accommodations to support these students in completing their academic requirements, ensuring that pregnancy does not hinder a student's educational journey.
Contention
The discussion surrounding SB627 has raised important questions about enforcement and compliance. Supporters argue that the bill is a progressive step towards enhancing equity in education and affirming the rights of pregnant students. However, critics express concerns about the potential burden of these requirements on educational institutions, particularly regarding implementation logistics and resource allocation for compliance monitoring. Moreover, the bill introduces the possibility of investigations into complaints regarding pregnancy discrimination by the Office of Civil Rights Enforcement, which could further complicate the interactions between students and educational institutions.
Higher education; prohibiting tuition, fee, and fine rates at certain institutions from exceeding rates of certain academic year. Effective date. Emergency.
Higher education; prohibiting certain test or qualification as a condition of employment or promotion within certain institutions of higher education. Effective date. Emergency.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.