Oklahoma Senate Bill SB933

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Schools; prohibiting certain schools from compelling participation in certain instruction, professional development, or training. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

The bill is likely to have significant implications for educational institutions across Oklahoma, particularly those receiving state funding. It stipulates that schools found noncompliant with these regulations would lose state funding, thus financially incentivizing adherence. Furthermore, the bill reinforces the notion that while certain concepts must be avoided in teaching, traditional educational standards and teaching concepts that align with the Oklahoma Academic Standards are still permissible. This creates a legal framework that may shape educational curricula and employee training programs focused on diversity and inclusion.

Summary

Senate Bill 933 (SB933) is a legislative proposal aimed at prohibiting certain schools in Oklahoma from compelling their personnel and students to engage in mandatory instruction, professional development, or training concerning gender and sexual diversity. Specifically, the bill amends existing education statutes to restrict institutions from requiring participation in training that aligns with concepts related to race or gender stereotyping. This includes provisions that declare it illegal for educational institutions to compel discussions on specific public policy issues without appropriate consent from students or their parents, especially for those under the age of eighteen.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SB933, especially regarding its potential implications for civil rights education. Advocates for the bill argue that it protects students and staff from being coerced into accepting concepts they may not agree with, promoting personal choice and dignity within educational settings. Conversely, opponents of the bill claim that it undermines essential discussions around race and gender diversity, which are critical for fostering an inclusive learning environment. The polarized views reflect broader societal debates about educational content and the role of schools in addressing complex social issues.