The bill amends several sections of the Oklahoma Statutes to enhance the criteria for issuing and revoking teaching certificates, particularly focusing on the accountability of educators regarding child abuse and neglect. It introduces provisions that disqualify individuals from certification if they are convicted of specific offenses, including sexual abuse or exploitation, or if they knowingly fail to report suspected child abuse or neglect. Additionally, the bill requires all school employees to annually sign an attestation confirming their responsibilities to report such abuse or neglect. It also mandates the State Board of Education to submit an annual report to the Governor and Legislature, detailing public school statistics, and emphasizes the importance of professional development programs that include training on these reporting requirements.

Moreover, the bill establishes the Statistical Services Revolving Fund to finance statistical services and outlines the calculation of redbud school grants based on nonchargeable millage for school districts, including charter schools. It specifies that teachers must be dismissed or not reemployed if convicted of certain offenses, including the failure to report child abuse, and requires school districts to notify the State Board of Education within ten days of such actions. The bill expands the definition of child abuse and neglect and emphasizes the need for professional development programs to include training on these issues. An emergency clause is included, allowing for immediate implementation upon passage, while the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Committee Substitute: 70-1210.163
Floor (House): 70-1210.163
Floor (Senate): 70-1210.163
Engrossed: 70-1210.163
Enrolled (final version): 70-1210.163