Bill > SB845

This bill establishes strict regulations for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at Oklahoma higher education institutions, effectively prohibiting most DEI-related activities. The bill defines a "diversity, equity, and inclusion office" and restricts institutions from establishing such offices, hiring DEI personnel, requiring DEI statements, or giving preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Institutions must adopt disciplinary policies for employees who violate these restrictions, and they cannot spend state funds until submitting a compliance report. The bill requires governing boards to testify before legislative committees about their compliance and mandates periodic compliance audits by the State Auditor and Inspector. If an institution is found in violation, they must cure the issue within 180 days or risk losing funding increases. The bill allows students or employees to seek legal relief if they are required to participate in non-compliant training, and it directs the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to conduct a biennial study on the implementation's impact on student demographics and academic outcomes. Notably, the bill provides exceptions for academic instruction, research, student organizations, and certain recruitment activities, and it allows institutions to provide recommendation letters for employees whose positions are eliminated due to these new restrictions.

Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb845&Session=2600