SB 1989 expands contribution options for Oklahoma's 529 College Savings Plan by explicitly permitting digital payments through peer-to-peer apps and digital networks, in addition to cash. This change directly affects anyone contributing to the plan, including parents, students, or others saving for qualified higher education expenses. The bill updates the statute (70 O.S. 2021, Section 3970.7) to clarify that contributions may now be made via these digital methods. The amendment does not alter savings limits, tax treatment, or other program rules, focusing solely on expanding how funds can be deposited.
SB 1796 allows Oklahoma foster parents to temporarily arrange care for foster children through three specific options: approved "alternate caregivers" (for up to 14 consecutive days), "respite care" by other foster families, or short-term "informal care" (friends/relatives for up to 72 hours). Foster parents must identify and get Department approval for alternate caregivers, who must pass background checks and home evaluations. The bill requires foster parents to notify the Department before using any temporary care and prohibits unsafe informal caregivers. It directly affects foster parents and children in foster care by expanding temporary care options while adding safety requirements for caregivers. The law takes effect November 1, 2026.
SB 1772 requires all motor vehicles in Oklahoma to display headlights and other required lighting devices at all times, regardless of weather conditions or time of day - replacing previous rules that only mandated lights during nighttime or poor visibility. This affects all drivers operating vehicles on Oklahoma roads, with exceptions only for parked vehicles. The bill amends multiple sections of Oklahoma’s vehicle code (47 O.S. 2021 §§ 12-201, 12-202, etc.) to update language and eliminate the prior "nighttime" and "poor visibility" triggers for lighting requirements. The change applies immediately upon the bill’s effective date.
SB 1725 allows Oklahoma public colleges and universities to charge security fees for permitted campus events like protests or gatherings, but only based on neutral factors such as event size, location, or alcohol service - not on speech content, viewpoint, or expected reaction. Institutions must publish their fee criteria online. The bill also directs the Oklahoma Free Speech Committee to develop mandatory training on these policies for students. These changes update existing free speech protections for campus activities at public higher education institutions.
SB 1423 eliminates the Oklahoma Hospital Advisory Council by removing all references to it from Oklahoma statutes (63 O.S. 2021 Sections 1-270, 1-705, and 1-707). The bill amends laws governing hospital licensing, safety standards, and stroke care systems by deleting requirements for the State Commissioner of Health to seek advice from the council. This change means the health department will no longer need to consult the council when developing rules for hospital operations, inspections, or stroke care plans. The bill takes effect November 1, 2026.
SB 1946 reduces the annual fee for distiller licenses in Oklahoma from $3,125 to $1,250. It removes production limits for distilleries and eliminates requirements about distillery premises needing to be contiguous. The bill also allows distilleries to sell sample spirits at certain events and exempts specific spirits from brand label registration fees. These changes directly affect distilleries, liquor businesses, and event organizers selling spirits. The bill modifies existing licensing fees and operational rules under Oklahoma's alcohol regulations.
SB 2011 expands Oklahoma's Class B5 criminal offense classification by adding 37 specific crimes, including domestic violence against intimate partners, assaults on police officers, stalking, and certain animal cruelty acts. This change affects individuals convicted of these offenses by subjecting them to the more severe penalties associated with Class B5, a higher-level criminal classification. The bill also updates statutory references to ensure consistency in the law. Introduced in the 2026 Oklahoma Legislature, it was referred to the Judiciary Committee.
SB 1562 updates Oklahoma's hospice care regulations by requiring hospices to coordinate services with patients' primary physicians and community providers, maintain 24/7 care availability, and provide bereavement support. It specifies penalties for hospices or employees who knowingly solicit patients from other hospices, including fines of $500-$2,000 per violation, and prohibits contracting with providers holding a conditional license within 18 months. The bill also clarifies that advertising and marketing are permitted if not false, misleading, or tied to referral volume. These changes apply directly to all hospice providers licensed in Oklahoma, aiming to improve care coordination and prevent unethical practices.
SB 1489 requires Oklahoma public schools and the State Department of Education to comply with federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) standards for students with disabilities aged 3-21. It mandates that school districts provide special education services as defined by IDEA and authorizes using federal funds for these services. The bill specifically requires the State Department to publish online dispute resolution options for parents, including IEP facilitation, mediation, due process, and state complaints. This bill affects all Oklahoma public school districts, students with disabilities, and their families, effective July 1, 2026.
SB 1670 requires Oklahoma public universities to adopt a new policy for research partnerships with private businesses, directing the Oklahoma State Regents to create a model policy that includes a tiered ownership system for technology developed through these partnerships. This tiered system bases ownership stakes and inventor compensation on the revenue generated from new technology, ensuring inventors receive competitive pay compared to other institutions. The policy also mandates universities to encourage development in specific areas like medical, biotech, and energy technology, while tracking related expenses and financial relationships. All policies must be reviewed every seven years to maintain competitiveness.
SB 1633 removes provisions allowing undocumented students to qualify for Oklahoma resident tuition by submitting immigration status applications or affidavits. It eliminates language ensuring these students would not be disqualified from state scholarships or financial aid based on immigration status. The bill aligns Oklahoma’s higher education residency rules with Section 3242.2, which generally prohibits non-residents from receiving resident tuition benefits or state financial aid. This change directly affects students who previously relied on the removed documentation pathways to access in-state tuition rates.
SB 1534 modifies Oklahoma's rules for charitable organizations and fundraising. It requires charitable nonprofits to submit specific information to the Secretary of State, updates definitions of terms like "charitable organization" and "contribution," and prohibits certain actions by these organizations. The bill directly affects charitable groups soliciting donations in Oklahoma, professional fundraisers, and their solicitors by clarifying requirements and adding new restrictions. Key provisions include updated board membership rules and clearer boundaries for professional fundraising activities. The bill aims to strengthen oversight of charitable solicitations while aligning state law with current federal tax return requirements.
