House Bill No. 2257 amends the Oklahoma National Guard Educational Assistance Act to enhance the support provided to eligible Guard members pursuing higher education. The bill introduces provisions for the inclusion of approved program fees and other mandatory fees in the assistance package, which will now be subject to joint approval by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Military Department. Additionally, the bill establishes a potential cap on the amount of assistance available, which is contingent upon the Military Department's regulations. To maintain eligibility for assistance, Guard members must now also possess a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) or Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) after their first semester.

The bill outlines the requirements for eligible Guard members, including maintaining good academic standing and satisfactory participation in the Oklahoma National Guard. It also specifies that assistance will be allocated from the Oklahoma National Guard Educational Assistance Revolving Fund and mandates the Military Department to regulate the application process and eligibility determinations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.