By Devyn Lyon, Fox23 News
OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma’s education system is once again under scrutiny at the State Capitol, as lawmakers begin outlining priorities ahead of the 2026 legislative session.
From early literacy and book restrictions to school security and budget concerns, proposals are emerging from both chambers that could significantly impact classrooms across the state.
One of those proposals comes from Tulsa Republican State Representative Rob Hall, who recently filed the Oklahoma Reads Act. The bill focuses on improving early elementary literacy, which Hall says is a foundational issue in the state’s education system.
“I think everybody could agree educational outcomes are not where we want them to be,” Hall said. “Early elementary literacy is the primary root cause of a lot of issues we see later down the line.”
The proposal would provide funding for literacy coaches in every school district and require third-grade students to meet reading benchmarks before advancing to the next grade. Hall defended the retention requirement, saying it is meant to help students succeed long-term.
“If we just promote kids based on age and not competency, we’re setting them up to fail,” Hall said. “It’s incredibly important we lay a strong foundation in reading at the early ages.”
Another education-related bill was filed by Republican State Representative Chris Banning of Bixby. His proposal aims to more clearly define what constitutes “obscene material” in schools, which would limit access to certain explicit books.
“If you can’t hand it to them in a public park, you can’t hand it to them in schools,” Banning said.
While Oklahoma law currently gives school districts the authority to decide what materials are allowed in their libraries, Banning argues the current standard for obscenity is too subjective.
“We have this disconnect on what is obscene material, and that’s what we’re clearly defining,” he said.
On the Senate side, lawmakers are already signaling tighter budgets for education agencies. During recent education appropriations meetings, senators questioned agency leaders about funding priorities and accountability, indicating that not all budget requests may be fully funded.
Meanwhile, Republican State Senator Adam Pugh of Edmond has filed a bill requiring presidential fitness tests in Oklahoma schools. Pugh is also pushing to maintain school security funding as a top legislative priority.
“If we’re gonna protect kids, we’re gonna protect kids,” Pugh said during a budget hearing.
With multiple education bills filed and budget discussions already underway, lawmakers are setting the stage for what could be a high-stakes debate when the legislature convenes next year.
If you would like to read Rep. Hall’s bill, click here. If you would like to read Rep. Banning’s bill, click here.
