Bill to align school board elections with regular elections advances to OK House floor

Bill to Shift School Board Election Dates Advances in Committee

OKLAHOMA CITY (Feb. 26th) – House Bill 1151, authored by Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, passed through the House Government Oversight Committee Tuesday, moving one step closer to making school board elections more accessible for Oklahoma voters.

The bill proposes shifting school board elections from February and April to June and November, aligning them with larger election cycles. It also standardizes term lengths for school board members, setting four-year terms for both elementary and independent district boards.

Banning emphasized the importance of increasing voter participation by making the voting process more convenient and accessible.

“This bill will create more accessibility for Oklahomans to vote by aligning school board elections with general election cycles,” Banning said. “By reducing the number of separate trips to the polls, we can enhance voter turnout and ensure community voices are better represented in school board decisions.”

Low voter turnout in school board elections has been an ongoing concern. In April 2024, only 146 voters participated in the Union Public Schools Board election for Zone 4. Banning believes aligning these elections with larger cycles will lead to greater community engagement and a more accurate reflection of public sentiment.

“This change isn’t just about convenience—it’s about strengthening our democracy,” Banning added. “When more people participate, we ensure that school board decisions reflect the needs and priorities of the entire community.”

Additionally, HB1151 would help school districts save on election costs. In 2023, Oklahoma school districts spent $16.8 million on off-cycle school elections. By consolidating election dates, districts could redirect significant funds toward educational needs.

With today’s committee approval, HB1151 is eligible to be heard on the House floor.