Bill > HB3850

This bill mandates that the Oklahoma Department of Corrections must fully fund a program to ensure that all inmates obtain a high school equivalency diploma before their release, replacing the previous requirement of achieving a certain proficiency level in reading, writing, and computation skills. The bill also removes any exceptions for inmates who might have previously been excused from these educational programs due to financial hardship or inability to participate, and it clarifies that inmates who refuse to participate in recommended education programs will be ineligible for earned credits and could jeopardize their parole eligibility. Furthermore, if an inmate has not obtained a high school equivalency diploma by the time they are eligible for parole or conditional supervision, the Pardon and Parole Board will require them to participate in approved education programs to earn one as a condition of their release, with the exception only if education programs are unavailable in the community or the inmate is physically unable to participate.

Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3850&Session=2600