What does House Bill 2854 mean for Oklahoma colleges – and Langston University?

A bill in the Oklahoma state legislature would allow larger universities to copy some of the programs currently only taught at smaller colleges and universities.

What does House Bill 2854 propose?

The bill would let larger universities offer the same programs currently exclusive to smaller schools, including Langston University’s Tulsa campus—the state’s only historically Black college and university (HBCU).

Image Provided By: Oklahoma House of Representatives

Who is behind the bill, and why?

Republican Rep. Toni Hasenbeck authored the bill.

She says current laws limit which programs colleges can offer, and that blocks students from graduating and getting jobs.

“Currently, when a statutory geographic restriction exists, the State Regents cannot implement any kind of innovation in that area to help meet Oklahoma's job market or help students graduate. This restriction by the Legislature has always been an overreach into the State Regents' constitutional obligation to make these decisions for our higher education institutions.

By removing these restrictions, House Bill 2854 affirms the State Regents' authority to coordinate course offerings across Oklahoma’s public colleges, allowing greater flexibility, collaboration, and access to higher education." – Rep. Hasenbeck R

Why are some lawmakers against it?

Democratic Rep. Ronald Stewart voted against the bill. He’s concerned it could hurt Langston University by letting other schools copy their unique programs.

“Langston University… is going to be the most affected… We’re down to two degree plans at our Tulsa campus.” – Rep. Stewart D

What could happen to Langston if this bill passes?

Rep. Stewart warns that Langston’s enrollment and funding could suffer, especially if students choose to take those same programs at bigger schools.

“It’s hard to say what students would do, but the current rules help keep our enrollment steady.” – Rep. Stewart

Langston University also shared a statement, saying:

“The bill may actually limit educational options for students. We remain committed to offering affordable academic programs that serve Tulsans and surrounding communities.”

What does Langston University have to say about this?

"We are very proud that Langston University has been offering upper-level coursework for more than 45 years to Tulsans and the surrounding community, the first public institution to do so in Tulsa. The Tulsa Higher Education Consortium, of which Langston University is a member, has worked diligently to create successful and supportive transfer pathways which allow students to earn a four-year degree in Tulsa affordably and with ease. We continue to engage with legislators to discuss the potential impact of HB2854 on institutions throughout the state. We believe the practical effect of the bill may actually limit the educational options for students. We are committed to continuing our efforts to offer affordable academic programming that meets the needs of Tulsans and the citizens of the surrounding areas." - Langston University

What’s next for the bill?

The bill has passed both House and Senate committees.

If it passes the full House and Senate and is signed by the Governor, it would become law on July 1.

Rep. Stewart says he’d like to see the bill rewritten to protect Langston—or rejected altogether.

Stay with News On 6 for updates on House Bill 2854 and what it means for higher education across Oklahoma.