Bill No. 2257 amends the Oklahoma National Guard Educational Assistance Act to enhance the support provided to eligible Guard members pursuing higher education. Key changes include the inclusion of program fees and the requirement for joint approval of these fees by the State Regents for Higher Education and the Military Department before payment can be made. The bill also establishes a cap on the number of students per program per semester that can receive assistance, and it mandates that eligible members must possess a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) or Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) after their first semester to retain eligibility.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the Military Department in promulgating regulations related to the application process and eligibility determination, ensuring collaboration with the State Regents for Higher Education. It specifies that assistance will cover resident tuition, mandatory fees, program fees, and any other fees for courses, not exceeding 18 credit hours per semester. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.