OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Bill 701, authored by Senator John Haste (R-Broken Arrow), has been signed into law by Governor Kevin Stitt, delivering a major victory for higher education access and workforce readiness in northeastern Oklahoma.

Originally focused on expanding course offerings at Northeastern State University (NSU) Broken Arrow, the final version of the legislation reflects an evolution that broadens its impact to the entire Tulsa region’s higher education institutions. SB 701 authorizes the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to approve functional exceptions — allowing institutions in the Tulsa area to expand undergraduate and graduate offerings and degree programs — ensuring that students can complete their degrees closer to home.

“This is a milestone I’ve been working toward for seven years — since I first came to the legislature — and I’m incredibly proud to see it become law,” said Senator Haste. “Expanding course availability at NSU-Broken Arrow and throughout the Tulsa region is a critical step in ensuring that students in our community have the academic resources they need without having to travel long distances. This legislation reflects our commitment to providing students with more flexibility and opportunities to earn their degrees while also strengthening Oklahoma’s workforce and economy. It also aligns with the constitutional authority of the State Regents to make higher education decisions for all areas of the state. I want to sincerely thank everyone who worked alongside us to make this possible — including Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, Sen. Christi Gillespie, my legislative colleagues, the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, the Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO), NSU leadership, Broken Arrow Chamber, Tulsa Regional Chamber, State Chamber, community advocates, and Governor Kevin Stitt — for their unwavering support of this vision.”

Representative Toni Hasenbeck (R-Elgin), the bill’s principal House author, added: “This bill empowers our higher education institutions to be more responsive to the unique needs of their communities. It’s a proactive approach to ensuring that all Oklahomans have access to quality education and the tools necessary for success.”

Senator Christi Gillespie (R-Tulsa), who co-authored the legislation, underscored the regional impact. “The signing of Senate Bill 701 is a meaningful investment in the future of our region. By expanding course offerings at NSU-Broken Arrow and beyond, we’re giving students and families more choices to pursue degrees that align with today’s workforce needs. I was proud to work alongside Senator Haste to get this bill across the finish line, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community,” said Gillespie.

With SB 701 now law, the Tulsa region’s higher education institutions will be able to expand academic offerings, creating new opportunities for students and employers alike.

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For more information, contact: Sen. John Haste at (405) 521-5602 or John.Haste@oksenate.gov