This bill amends the composition and appointment process of the State Board of Education in Oklahoma. It increases the number of board members from seven to nine, with the State Superintendent of Public Instruction serving as a member and chairperson. The bill changes the appointing authority, allowing four members to be appointed by the Governor, two by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and two by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate. It establishes for-cause removal procedures for board members, eliminating the previous provision that allowed members to serve at the pleasure of the Governor. Additionally, the bill modifies vacancy procedures, stating that vacancies will be filled in the same manner as the original appointments.

Upon the effective date of the act, all current board member positions will be vacated, and the Governor, Speaker of the House, and President Pro Tempore must make initial appointments within thirty days. The terms for these initial appointments will terminate on April 2, 2030, after which members will be appointed as outlined in the amended section. The bill also stipulates eligibility requirements for board members, including the necessity of having a high school diploma or equivalent and prohibits individuals serving on a school district board from being appointed. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.