Oklahoma 2025 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB759

Introduced
2/3/25  

Caption

Schools; amending the Parents' Bill of Rights. Emergency.

Impact

The implications of SB759 are significant as it mandates that school districts develop policies that ensure parents are notified in advance and provide written consent prior to their children participating in sex education or any activities related to sexual orientation or gender identity. This not only reinforces parental rights but also limits the scope of education on these subjects within schools. Consequently, this may result in a more uniform and conservative approach to sex education and related topics, which supporters argue protects parental authority, while critics claim it undermines comprehensive education.

Summary

Senate Bill 759 amends various sections of the Oklahoma Statutes relating to the Parents' Bill of Rights, specifically addressing parental control in education and healthcare decisions concerning minors. This bill emphasizes that parents have the fundamental right to direct their children's upbringing without interference from governmental entities. It establishes requirements for school districts to obtain written consent from parents before providing certain educational content related to sex education, sexual orientation, and gender identity. It also mandates that parents have access to review all educational materials and medical records concerning their children.

Contention

The bill has sparked notable contention in the legislature, particularly around the issues of parental consent and the rights of students regarding sensitive subjects. Proponents of the bill argue that it fortifies parental rights and accountability, allowing parents to have decisive control over their children's exposure to potentially contentious issues in education. Conversely, opponents express concern that such restrictions may hinder the ability of students to receive a well-rounded education regarding critical issues that relate to diversity and personal identity. This debate highlights the tension between parental authority and student rights in the educational landscape.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB882

Driving under the influence; modifying bail provisions related to charges of driving under the influence. Effective date.

OK SB434

County employees' retirement systems; increasing maximum amount of total employer and employee contributions. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB201

Schools; establishing minimum salary schedule for teachers. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB936

Tobacco and vapor products; modifying applicability of fines under the Prevention of Youth Access to Tobacco Act. Effective date.

OK SB327

Income tax; modifying marginal income tax brackets for certain tax years. Effective date.

OK SB292

Income tax; modifying certain income tax rate for certain tax years. Effective date.

OK SB290

Tax; modifying certain income tax rates for certain tax years. Effective date.

OK HB2140

Revenue and taxation; Ad Valorem Tax Code; definitions; classifications of property; valuation procedures; effective date.

Similar Bills

OK SB413

Schools; creating the Oklahoma Sexual Education Reform and Parental Rights Protection Act; requiring written consent for a student to participate in certain instruction. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB1964

Parental rights; Parents' Bill of Rights; private right of action; review; materials; object; opt in; fine; violation; term; effective date.

OK SB215

Mathematics instruction; creating the Oklahoma Math Achievement and Proficiency Act. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB348

Schools; directing responsibility for content of all instructional materials; requiring adoption of policy for objections to use of specific materials. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB1144

Schools; attendance; allowing one day per semester for an excused absence for student mental health; effective date; emergency.

OK SB105

Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarships for Students with Disabilities Program; removing prior public school enrollment requirement; modifying eligibility requirements. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB841

Strong Readers Act; modifying use of Statewide Literacy Revolving Fund; modifying requirement for teacher preparation program students to complete certain training. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB700

School athletics; directing the State Department of Education and the State Department of Health to develop certain guidelines regarding exertional heat-related illness. Effective date. Emergency.