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HB 2946

Postsecondary education; Sergeant Bobby Swartz Act; waiver of fees and costs for grandchildren of persons killed in line of duty; effective date; emergency.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Emily Gise and 1 co-sponsor

Oklahoma bill waives postsecondary tuition and fees for grandchildren of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty, effective immediately upon passage.

Referred to Rules
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Bill Summary · HB 2946

Legislative bill overview

HB 2946, named the Sergeant Bobby Swartz Act, would waive tuition and fees for grandchildren of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty at Oklahoma postsecondary institutions. The bill establishes an emergency effective date, indicating the sponsors view this as requiring immediate implementation.

Why is this important

This legislation creates a financial benefit for a specific category of dependents affected by officer deaths, potentially removing a significant barrier to higher education for vulnerable family members. The policy reflects a legislative decision about how the state honors fallen officers and supports their extended families during difficult circumstances.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact and sustainability: The bill's cost depends on the number of eligible grandchildren and institution enrollment patterns, which is unclear without fiscal notes; long-term funding mechanisms aren't specified
  • Definition and scope limitations: The policy applies only to grandchildren (not other dependents like adult children or spouses) and only to line-of-duty deaths, potentially creating inconsistencies in family support
  • Precedent and expansion concerns: Establishing this waiver may prompt similar requests for other professions (firefighters, military) or other categories of deceased public servants, with uncertain budgetary consequences

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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