Higher education; prohibited uses of funds, property, or resources; legislative committee testimony regarding compliance; State Auditor and Inspector compliance audits; cause of action for violations of section; biennial study; effective date; emergency.

HB 3601 prohibits Oklahoma public universities from using state funds for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs that grant preferential treatment based on race, ethnicity, national origin, or other protected characteristics. It requires institutions to review and potentially eliminate non-compliant DEI initiatives by July 2026, submit annual compliance certificates to state leaders, and undergo state audits every four years (with potential loss of funding for violations). The bill exempts programs supporting first-generation students, low-income students, veterans, or underserved populations, academic freedom, accreditation requirements, and student organizations. It also mandates a biennial study on how the law affects student enrollment, retention, and graduation rates, and allows students/employees to sue institutions for forced participation in prohibited activities.