SB 529 Summary

• Updates the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program (also known as "Oklahoma's Promise") by amending eligibility criteria and program requirements related to higher education funding in Oklahoma

• Modifies income qualification thresholds for program eligibility, raising limits from $50,000 to $55,000 (effective 2017-2018 school year) and to $60,000 (effective 2021-2022 school year) for students applying in grades 8-10

• Requires income qualification verification beginning in the 2018-2019 academic year for students enrolled in Oklahoma higher education institutions, vocational-technical programs, or private institutions

• Eliminates awards for remedial noncredit-earning courses beginning with the 2018-2019 academic year and directs the Oklahoma State Regents to establish maximum limits on courses for which benefits apply

• Effective July 1, 2017, with emergency clause allowing immediate implementation upon passage and approval