OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City, celebrates with Governor Kevin Stitt for delivering big for Oklahomans with disabilities. The new law expands Oklahoma Promise to set up scholarships for Oklahomans to attend qualified post-secondary programs designed to support students with intellectual disabilities.
“This is an exciting day for our state, we are expanding laws to include Oklahomans that have previously been left behind. When we support education opportunities for everyone, it strengthens our entire state and workforce,” Hefner said. “I applaud the bi-partisan effort to get this law across the finish line.”
Hefner was joined by Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, Senator Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, teachers and students from SoonerWorks at the University of Oklahoma, Opportunity Orange at Oklahoma State University and the RiverHawks from Northeastern State University. Also present were stakeholders and advocates from the ARC, Oklahoma Developmental Disability Council, integral House Staff, and more. All these experts were instrumental in the passing of this legislation.
“These programs at our state schools increase development and growth of academic, work, and personal skills. Along with independent living, friendships, and self-advocacy. The outcome data shows program participants are employed post-graduation at significantly higher rates with higher average wages,” Hefner said.
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