House Bill 2030, signed into law this week, will require high school students to pass the same citizenship test as immigrants becoming naturalized citizens to graduate. The U.S. Civics Test will begin to be administered during the 2022-2023 school year.
The legislation, written by House Speaker Pro Tempore Terry O’Donnell, also requires students to study original documents such as the U.S. Constitution, Federalist Papers, the Emancipation Proclamation and the Declaration of Independence.
“This law will help ensure students graduating from our public schools will be able to answer basic citizenship questions, understand the rights guaranteed to us under the U.S. Constitution and its Amendments, and explain how our legislative process works,” O’Donnell said. “Unfortunately, today too many adults and young adults in our state and our nation are unable to give an accurate accounting of the information that is basic to our national liberty.”
As part of the curriculum Schools also will be required to demonstrate the differences between the levels of government, i.e., federal, state, county and municipal governments. Simulations of the governmental process will be held, as well.
Senator Adam Pugh served as the HB 2030’s Senate author.
“I’m excited to support a robust civics education plan in which House Bill 2030 is a significant part,” Pugh said. “This measure helps connect future generations to our founding, our history, and the responsibilities entrusted to us as citizens. Encouraging students to be engaged in their community, state, and nation has long been a passion of mine, and I hope young people will continue to look for ways to involve themselves in the very important affairs of our country to include voting, understanding our past, and helping us build a bright future for Oklahomans.”
Students will be required to pass the U.S. Civics Test by getting 60 of the 100 questions correct. Students who do not pass the test can request a re-test until they do pass.
O’Donnell hopes this legislation will bring about more civic involvement by people who understand how the government system works.
“We should expect that all people who will live in our communities, work in our businesses and take part in civic life, including being able to vote for who represents them, will be able to understand and abide by the laws of the land,” O’Donnell said.
