Bill No. 363 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, student consumer protection, and fiscal responsibility.

Additionally, the bill exempts certain institutions from accreditation requirements, including religious degree-granting institutions and those offering degrees that meet specific criteria for religious degrees. It also clarifies that non-exempt institutions engaged in non-degree-granting activities will be subject to standards set by the Oklahoma Board of Private Vocational Schools. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-4103, 70-4104
Floor (Senate): 70-4103, 70-4104
Engrossed: 70-4103, 70-4104