This bill amends Section 3242.2 of Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to higher education benefits for students who are not lawfully present in the United States. The bill removes the previous exception that allowed certain students enrolled in degree programs during the 2006-2007 school year or earlier to receive resident tuition benefits. It establishes that individuals not lawfully present in the U.S. are ineligible for any postsecondary education benefits, including scholarships, financial aid, and resident tuition based on their residence in Oklahoma. Additionally, the bill allows the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to promulgate rules to implement these provisions.

Furthermore, the bill repeals Section 3242 of Title 70, which previously related to resident tuition eligibility for certain students. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026, and it declares an emergency, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-3242, 70-3., 70-2026.