OK SB387

Expands the definition of "eligible student" in the STEM Workforce Pipeline Program to include individuals enrolled in technology center schools under the State Board of Career and Technology Education, in addition to undergraduate and graduate students at institutions of higher education.

Eligible students must be majoring in STEM-based disciplines including natural sciences, computer science, materials science, engineering, biomedical, biotechnical, data analytics, finance, mathematics, or support areas related to building successful Oklahoma high-tech companies.

The Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology may award competitive internship funds through professional service contracts to Oklahoma-based nonprofit research foundations or private enterprises to hire qualified student interns for innovative industry projects.

Applicant organizations must provide at least 50% of total direct project costs from non-state sources such as salary, cash, or nonstate grant funds, and must demonstrate projects lead to innovation with reasonable probability to enhance Oklahoma employment opportunities.

The act becomes effective November 1, 2025.