Bill > SB848

This bill, known as the Oklahoma Independent Education Act, aims to protect the independence of public schools by prohibiting school districts and charter schools from using federal funds for activities related to sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill requires the State Department of Education and State Board of Education to develop a comprehensive plan to phase out federal education funding and replace it with state funds, including a proposed timeline and projected funding needs. A working group comprising legislative and gubernatorial appointees will be formed to monitor the bill's implementation, with members appointed within 30 days of the act's effective date. The working group, which will not be subject to open meeting or open records acts, will be tasked with submitting a report of findings and recommendations to key state leaders. The bill defines "gender identity" as a person's innate sense of gender and "sexual orientation" as a person's sexual attraction, and emphasizes protecting public schools' ability to focus on fundamental educational skills. The act is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause allowing immediate implementation upon passage and approval, reflecting the legislature's intent to protect educational values and reduce federal influence in Oklahoma's education system.