Senate Education Committee approves Sergeant CJ Nelson Legacy Act

OKLAHOMA CITY- House Bill 1795, the Sergeant CJ Nelson Legacy Act, was unanimously approved by the Senate Education Committee Tuesday. Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, serves as the Senate author of the legislation that covers certain higher education expenses for children of fallen first responders.

Currently, tuition is waived for children of peace officers, firefighters, or emergency medical technicians who died in the line of duty. HB 1795 would waive administrative fees at Oklahoma colleges, universities and CareerTechs, in addition to room and board.

“Our first responders put their lives on the line every time they leave their homes for work,” Sen. Thompson said. “Their families also share an incredible weight knowing this is a reality. This meaningful legislation is something we can do to ensure that these families are taken care of if the worst-case scenario happens. The tragedy that involved Sgt. CJ Nelson, and many other first responders, should never be forgotten and their surviving loved ones should always be taken care of in case an incident like this arises. For these reasons, and many more, is why I am a proud proponent of this bill.” 

HB 1795 is now eligible for consideration by the Senate Appropriations Committee.     

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For more information, contact:

Sen. Kristen Thompson at 405-521-5592 or Kristen.Thompson@oksenate.gov.