Bill > SB363

This bill modifies Oklahoma's higher education regulations, primarily focusing on accreditation requirements for private and out-of-state educational institutions. The bill introduces a new definition for "religious degree-granting institutions" and establishes specific criteria for such institutions, including being domiciled in the United States, holding tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and offering degrees with a religious purpose. The legislation requires most private and out-of-state degree-granting institutions to be accredited by a recognized educational accrediting agency and be domiciled within the United States. It expands exemptions from accreditation requirements to include religious degree-granting institutions and institutions offering only religiously-focused degrees. The bill also requires the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to establish annual authorization fees, collect payments for a Tuition Recovery Revolving Fund, and maintain the authority to deny or revoke an institution's authorization if it fails to meet established standards. Additionally, the bill mandates that religious degrees include a religious modifier on all official documents and transcripts. The legislation will become effective on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause allowing immediate implementation upon passage.

Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb363&Session=2600