Oklahoma Senator Uses Bible to Oppose Ban on Hitting Disabled Students
Oklahoma Senate Bill 364, seeking to ban corporal punishment for disabled students, faced opposition from Senator Shane Jett, who cited Proverbs 22:15 to argue against the bill’s alignment with scripture. Proponents, including Senator Dave Rader, countered that the bill ensures appropriate discipline for students with special needs, while prohibiting corporal punishment. Despite this opposition, the bill passed the Senate and now proceeds to the House. Currently, Oklahoma permits corporal punishment in schools, though a 2017 law and a 2020 Department of Education directive restricted its use on certain disabled students.
John Q. Hosedrinker