§70-24-162. Discrimination prohibited.

442 words·~2 min read·/ok/title-70-schools/70-24-162

A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.

A. As used in this section:

1. “Antisemitism” has the same meaning as provided for by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance Working Definition of Antisemitism, including its contemporary examples, as it was adopted on May 26, 2016;

2. “Institution of higher education” means an institution of higher education within The Oklahoma State System of Higher Education; and

3. “Public school” shall have the same meaning as provided for in Section 1-106 of Title 70 of the Oklahoma Statutes.

B. Discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or marital status against a student or an employee in an institution of higher education or a public school in this state shall be prohibited. No person in this state shall, on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or marital status, be excluded from participating in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any institution of higher education or public

school program or activity or in any employment conditions or practices conducted by an institution of higher education or a public school that receives or benefits from federal or state financial assistance.

C. The criteria for admission to a program or course at an institution of higher education shall not have the effect of restricting access by persons of a particular race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or marital status; provided, this shall not infringe upon the rights of student faith- based organizations and ethnic solidarity organizations to select leadership committed to their group’s mission and principles.

D. All institution of higher education and public school classes shall be available to all students without regard to race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or marital status. Provided, however, the provisions of this subsection shall not prohibit the provision of programs designed to meet the needs of students with limited proficiency in English, gifted students, or students with disabilities or programs tailored to students with specialized talents or skills.

E. Guidance, counseling, and financial assistance services in institutions of higher education and public schools shall be available to all students equally and provided in the same manner regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or marital status.

F. All education programs, activities, and opportunities offered by institutions of higher education and public schools shall be made available without discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or marital status.

G. Nothing in this act shall be construed to limit or restrict the implementation, funding, or administration of any Indian education programs or services established under federal or state law. Added by Laws 2025, c. 73, § 1.