Labor; creating the Expanding Public Sector Career Opportunities Act; prohibiting public employers from certain hiring practices. Effective date.

SB 724, the "Expanding Public Sector Career Opportunities Act," prohibits Oklahoma public employers (state, county, and municipal agencies) from rejecting job applicants solely for lacking a postsecondary degree. Instead, employers must set baseline requirements focused on direct work experience or specific certifications, allowing up to 9 years of experience to substitute for a doctoral degree. The bill requires employers to justify degree requirements in job postings and provides applicants a written notice and appeal process to the Office of Management and Enterprise Services if rejected for lacking a degree. It aims to broaden hiring opportunities by reducing unnecessary educational barriers while maintaining role-specific skill requirements. The law takes effect November 1, 2025.