This bill amends the Health Education Act in Oklahoma, updating statutory references and language, and modifying the purpose of the act. It defines key terms such as "benchmark," "health education," "informed consent," and "nutrition." The bill emphasizes the importance of providing students with knowledge and skills related to physical health, exercise, and nutrition, while explicitly prohibiting the integration of health education into existing subjects. The State Department of Education is tasked with reviewing and approving curricula, materials, and assessments related to health education, which all school districts must use. Additionally, school district boards are required to submit annual reports electronically to the State Department of Education, detailing the implementation of health education.
The bill also amends existing mental health crisis protocols, removing certain review requirements and repealing previous sections related to Marias Law and the Oklahoma Prevention Needs Assessment Survey. It establishes a process for individuals to submit complaints regarding violations of the Health Education Act, allowing the State Board of Education to report deficiencies in school districts. The effective date of the bill is set for July 1, 2025, and an emergency clause is included to ensure immediate implementation upon passage and approval.