The bill amends existing laws related to the accreditation of private and certain out-of-state educational institutions in Oklahoma. It introduces a new definition for "religious degree-granting institution," which must be domiciled in the U.S. or its territories, exempt from taxation under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and offer degrees that meet specific criteria. The bill also modifies the requirements for accreditation, stating that all private and out-of-state public degree-granting institutions must be accredited by a recognized agency and domiciled within the U.S. It establishes that the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education will set policies to ensure these institutions meet standards of academic quality, consumer protection, and fiscal responsibility.

Additionally, the bill updates the exemption criteria for certain institutions, including religious degree-granting institutions and those offering degrees that meet specific religious criteria. It clarifies that non-exempt institutions engaged in non-degree-granting activities will be subject to standards administered by the Oklahoma Board of Private Vocational Schools. The bill also mandates that private educational institutions can only grant degrees authorized by the Oklahoma State Regents unless otherwise approved by a recognized accrediting agency. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-4103, 70-4104
Floor (House): 70-4103, 70-4104
Floor (Senate): 70-4103, 70-4104
Engrossed: 70-4103, 70-4104
Enrolled (final version): 70-4103, 70-4104