Higher education; directing institution of higher education governing boards to ensure certain actions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion do not occur. Effective date. Emergency.
Impact
If enacted, SB845 would significantly alter the operational frameworks of higher education institutions in Oklahoma. The bill outlines that institutions failing to comply with its provisions would risk losing funding from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. It mandates that institutions undergo periodic audits to verify adherence to these regulations, thereby enforcing accountability and compliance to state directives regarding the management of diversity-related initiatives.
Summary
Senate Bill 845, introduced by Senator Standridge, addresses several components relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices within Oklahoma's higher education institutions. The bill stipulates that governing boards must prevent the establishment of DEI offices and the implementation of DEI training that includes race or ethnicity considerations unless specifically authorized by legal counsel. It aims to ensure that employment practices and funding allocations align with state laws on antidiscrimination without promoting preferential treatment based on these factors.
Contention
The bill has sparked considerable debate among legislators and stakeholders in the education sector. Proponents argue that it creates a more equitable environment by eliminating potentially discriminatory practices rooted in certain DEI initiatives. However, opponents have voiced concerns that the legislation could hinder efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in educational settings, essential for cultivating a comprehensive academic community. The broader implications of this bill may affect hiring practices, resource allocation, and the overall educational environment in Oklahoma.
Carry Over
Higher education; directing institution of higher education governing boards to ensure certain actions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion do not occur. Effective date. Emergency.
Higher education; directing institution of higher education governing boards to ensure certain actions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion do not occur. Effective date. Emergency.
Higher education; requiring certain institutions of higher education to report certain funding from certain foreign sources. Effective date. Emergency.
Higher education; prohibiting tuition and fee rates at certain institutions of higher education from exceeding rates of certain academic year. Effective date. Emergency.
Higher education; creating the Stop DEI Act; prohibiting an institution of higher education from requiring, soliciting, or incentivizing participation in certain practices or content. Effective date. Emergency.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.