HB 1898 Summary

• Amends 70 O.S. 2011, Section 2604 to allow Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program (OHLAP) awards to cover tuition for eligible vocational-technical courses or programs at public postsecondary institutions.

• Awards for vocational-technical programs are limited to an amount not exceeding what a student would receive for comparable enrollment at a two-year institution within the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education.

• Allows students who initially enroll in a higher education institution but then change to a vocational-technical program to use awards for the tech program, provided total awards do not exceed the cost of completing a baccalaureate program.

• Maintains existing OHLAP restrictions on award timing (generally within 5 years of first semester enrollment) and eligibility requirements, with exceptions for military service members ordered to active duty.

• Becomes effective July 1, 2013, with emergency declaration allowing implementation upon passage and approval.