Senate passes bill codifying governor's executive order restricting diversity, equity and inclusion programs at state higher‑education institutions

Senate Bill 796, described on the floor as statutory codification of a governor's executive order, passed the Oklahoma Senate after extended debate and was approved as an emergency measure.

Senator Pugh opened explanation of the bill, telling the chamber the measure “codifies the governor's executive order, prohibiting DEI on college campuses.” Members spent several hours debating how the bill would read in practice: whether it bans use of state funds for programs defined as DEI, whether protected groups such as people with disabilities remain exempted, and how the statute would be enforced.

Opponents argued the bill would curtail campus programming that supports historically underserved students and chill curricular and workplace training. Senator Goodwin repeatedly pressed the author on definitional clarity, asking whether state funds come from a “diverse group of people” and whether funds from taxpayers could be used to benefit diverse populations. Goodwin also asked whether the bill would bar universities from appointing positions described as DEI roles; the author said the statutory language was intended to restrict use of state funds, property or resources and could be clarified later if needed.

Supporters argued the bill prevents ideological mandates and “preferential” treatment by public institutions. Minority Leader Kurt and other senators asked whether broad definitions could create uncertainty for universities; proponents said institutions have layers of accountability through the regents and accreditors, and that the language mirrors a governor's executive order that had been in effect for roughly 15 months.

The floor debate included numerous questions about exemptions. The bill’s text as discussed on the floor included language expressly preserving certain activities: compliance with accrediting or federal requirements and programs that support “underserved student populations,” including students with unique abilities.

Senate leaders closed debate after a long exchange. The Senate recorded 39 ayes and 8 nays on final passage and the chamber declared the bill passed and adopted as an emergency measure.

What the bill does (as discussed on the floor): - Prohibits institutions within the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education from using state funds, property or resources to “grant or support” DEI positions, programs or training as defined in the bill text discussed on the floor. - Exempts federally required activities, accreditation compliance, and specific programming for underserved students and students with unique abilities (as read on the floor).

Speakers on both sides said clarifying language could be added in follow‑up as the bill moves to the House. The transcript shows extended questioning on definitional issues (what constitutes a “grant,” how “ideological” will be interpreted and how exemptions for disability programs will be applied).