House Bill No. 1727 amends the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program (OHLAP) to broaden eligibility criteria and update various provisions aimed at enhancing access to higher education. The bill allows children of certified classroom teachers to qualify for the program, establishing that these students will not be deemed to have financial need if their household income exceeds a specified percentage of the federal poverty level. It also introduces new income thresholds based on family size, with limits set at $60,000 for families with two or fewer children, $70,000 for families with three or four children, and $80,000 for families with five or more children. Additionally, students who are adopted or placed in the custody of the Department of Human Services may qualify for assistance with income thresholds of $150,000 and $200,000 depending on the age of adoption.

The bill further clarifies that financial qualification will be based on the student's income if they are considered independent for federal financial aid purposes. It extends the timeframe for eligible students to enter into agreements for program participation and allows for exceptions to age limits for students facing hardship. The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education are tasked with verifying eligibility and implementing rules related to the program's administration. These changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and aim to provide a more inclusive framework for students seeking higher education in Oklahoma.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-2603, 70-2605
House Committee Substitute: 70-2603, 70-2605
Senate Committee Substitute for House Bill: 70-2603, 70-2605
Floor (House): 70-2603, 70-2605
Floor (Senate): 70-2603, 70-2605
Engrossed: 70-2603, 70-2605
Amended And Engrossed: 70-2603, 70-2605
House Conference Committee Substitute: 70-2603, 70-2605
Enrolled (final version): 70-2603v2, 70-2605