On February 3, 2025, the Oklahoma State Legislature introduced House Bill 2928, a significant piece of legislation aimed at expanding educational options for students with disabilities and those with incarcerated parents. The bill seeks to enhance the existing Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarship program, which provides funding for eligible students to attend private schools.

The primary purpose of House Bill 2928 is to ensure that school districts actively inform parents or legal guardians about the scholarship options available to their children. This includes a requirement for districts to notify families of students with disabilities or those with at least one incarcerated parent about the scholarship program and provide access to information through the State Department of Education. This notification is to be included in the annual "Parents Rights in Special Education: Notice of Procedural Safeguards" document.

Key provisions of the bill stipulate that acceptance of the Lindsey Nicole Henry Scholarship will be treated as a parental revocation of consent for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This means that once a parent accepts the scholarship, they assume full financial responsibility for their child's education, including transportation to the private school.

The bill has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers, particularly regarding its implications for public education funding and the potential impact on students who may not have access to private schooling. Critics argue that the bill could divert essential resources away from public schools, while supporters contend that it provides necessary choices for families seeking better educational opportunities for their children.

Economically, the bill could lead to increased enrollment in private schools, which may affect public school funding formulas based on student attendance. Socially, it raises questions about equity in education, particularly for families who may not have the means to cover additional costs associated with private schooling.

As House Bill 2928 progresses through the legislative process, its implications for Oklahoma's educational landscape remain a topic of debate. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the discussions, as the bill's outcomes could significantly influence the future of educational access for vulnerable student populations in the state.