Amended Bill Banning Physical Punishment For Oklahoma Students With Disabilities Passes

A bill that bans physical punishment of students with special needs was passed by state representatives on Tuesday.

Oklahoma law prevents school staff from spanking students with "significant cognitive disabilities" unless parents give the school permission. House Bill 1020 expanded that prevention to any student identified with a disability by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and remove the exception for a parental waiver.

Lawmakers in opposition to the change argued that parents should have the choice.

"If a parent doesn't believe in corporal punishment, then they wouldn't allow it," said Rep. Chad Caldwell, R-Enid.

Advocates say some children don't have parents who have their best interests at heart.

"To stand up for those students who don't have a voice and don't have a family or caregiver that can speak up for them,” said Arc Of Oklahoma Executive Director Lisa Kelly.

The bill did not pass last week, but the House passed an amended version. It now heads to the state senate.

Original HB 1028 Amended Bill