Oklahoma Lawmaker Cites Bible to Oppose Ban on Hitting Disabled Students

Oklahoma State Senator Shane Jett opposed Senate Bill 364, which seeks to ban corporal punishment for disabled students, arguing that it violates scripture and represents a socialist ideology that undermines parental authority. Jett cited Proverbs 22:15 to support his stance, claiming that discipline through corporal punishment is biblically justified. The bill, authored by fellow Republican Senator Dave Rader, aims to codify existing bans on physical punishment for disabled students, a practice already prohibited by the State Department of Education. Rader and other supporters emphasized that decisions on discipline should respect the needs of disabled children and their families. Despite Jett's objections, the bill passed in the Senate with a vote of 31-16 and will advance to the House for further consideration. The ongoing debate highlights the tension between traditional disciplinary methods and contemporary educational policies regarding the treatment of disabled students.