OK SB171

Establishes the "Flexibility for Rural Education Act of 2015" to amend Oklahoma's charter school sponsorship requirements under 70 O.S. 2011, Section 3-132.

Removes the requirement that school districts have an average daily membership of 5,000 or more and be located in counties with populations exceeding 500,000 to sponsor charter schools.

Removes restrictions limiting charter school sponsorship to school districts with sites identified as "in need of improvement" under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.

Retains charter school sponsorship authority for technology center school districts, higher education institutions, federally recognized Indian tribes, and the State Board of Education under modified or existing criteria.

Effective date: July 1, 2015, with emergency clause allowing immediate effect upon passage and approval.