OKLAHOMA CITY – The House passed legislation today that ends higher education course and program statutory restrictions based on geographic location.

House Bill 2854, by Rep. Toni Hasenbeck, puts a moratorium on statutory geographic restrictions for two and four year colleges across the state. This will allow the Oklahoma State Regents to meet their constitutional obligation to help degree-seeking students enter critical workforce areas.

"This bill will ensure that the Regents and the institutions can work together to create innovative programs for all Oklahomans seeking a post-secondary education," said Hasenbeck, R-Elgin. "This change is long overdue and will help our colleges and universities meet our state's evolving workforce needs and give students much-needed choice in our higher education system."

The bill passed the House with a vote of 68-21 and will now move to the Senate for further consideration.