ENGR. H. B. NO. 1674 Summary

• Creates the "Scientific Education and Academic Freedom Act" to protect teaching of scientific information in Oklahoma public schools.

• Directs the State Board of Education, district boards, superintendents, and administrators to create an environment encouraging students to explore scientific questions and develop critical thinking skills about scientific controversies.

• Permits teachers to help students understand, analyze, critique, and review the scientific strengths and weaknesses of existing scientific theories pertinent to their courses without prohibition.

• Prohibits students from being penalized for subscribing to a particular position on scientific theories, while maintaining their obligation to learn and be tested on prescribed curriculum standards.

• Effective July 1, 2014, with emergency declared; requires the State Department of Education to notify superintendents and requires superintendents to disseminate the act's provisions to all employees.