HB 1727 Summary

• Extends eligibility to enter the Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program from age 16 to age 17, and allows the State Regents to grant exceptions for hardship circumstances for students up to age 21.

• Adds children of certified classroom teachers (employed full-time for minimum 10 years) as eligible participants if household income is at or above 700% of federal poverty level at application and below 700% during postsecondary enrollment.

• Updates income thresholds for financial need determination for the 2025-2026 school year: $60,000 for families with two or fewer dependents, $70,000 for three to four dependents, and $80,000 for five or more dependents.

• Requires the Oklahoma State Regents to verify full-time employment status of parents of certified classroom teacher children before awarding benefits.

• Becomes effective July 1, 2025, with an emergency clause allowing immediate implementation upon passage and approval.