Legislation directing postsecondary educational institutions to designate certain degrees, certificates, licenses and industry-recognized credentials as "credentials of value" has passed its first committee. 

House Bill 2398, authored by Rep. Brian Hill, R-Mustang, would establish a statewide framework allowing the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education and the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education to designate “credentials of value.” To receive the designation, programs must demonstrate a positive return on investment for students and align with state and regional workforce demand. 

Hill said the goal of the legislation is to ensure Oklahoma students are set up for long-term success while strengthening the state’s workforce pipeline. 

"Our students deserve data-driven information about which programs will help them build meaningful careers and achieve financial stability," Hill said. "House Bill 2398 ensures education leads to opportunities for students and a strong return on investment for the state. By aligning education with real workforce demand, we can strengthen families, businesses and communities across Oklahoma." 

The measure also includes safeguards to protect and support high-need workforce areas, including education and public safety, which Hill said would help keep critical government services roles strong and sustainable for Oklahoma's future. Additionally, HB2398 also requires annual reporting on program outcomes, including completion rates, employment, earnings and cost information. 

HB2398 passed the House Postsecondary Education Committee on Wednesday and can now be heard in the House Education Oversight Committee.