The bill amends the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program by increasing the income eligibility limits for families seeking benefits. The new thresholds raise the income limit for families with two or fewer dependent children to $100,000, for families with three or four dependent children to $110,000, and for families with five or more dependent children to $120,000, effective for the 2027-2028 school year. Additionally, the overall income limit for receiving any program benefits is increased from $100,000 to $130,000 for the same academic year. The bill also updates statutory references and outlines the responsibilities of school districts and the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education in promoting awareness and compliance with the program.

Moreover, the bill introduces provisions for assessing financial need, allowing exceptions for students in specific circumstances, such as those in the custody of the Department of Human Services or independent for federal financial aid purposes. It requires designated school contact persons to maintain agreements with students and monitor compliance, while the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education will verify compliance and process agreements. The bill also permits the State Regents to grant exceptions to age limits for twelfth-grade students facing hardship, with certain exclusions. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-2605