A. For the purpose of this section, "agency" is any agency or department of the executive branch.

B. Beginning November 1, 2016, agencies are authorized to establish education and training programs for positions critical to the mission of the agency. The agency may contract with accredited institutions located in Oklahoma necessary to provide this education and training. Funds of the agency or its institutions may be used to pay salaries or tuition and subsistence for employees in these training programs, pursuant to subsection D of this section. Employees may be in work status while engaging in training and education programs provided for in this section.

C. An employee of an agency, who has achieved a "meets" or "exceeds" standards on his or her performance evaluation and meets the standards as established in rules promulgated pursuant to this section, shall be eligible for additional education and training provided by the state.

D. An employee of the agency who participates in the education and training program outlined in this act shall execute a promissory note for expenses payable to the agency whereby the employee promises to repay the note by remaining in employment with the agency. The duration of the loan repayment will correspond with the program in which the employee participated as set forth in rules promulgated for the implementation of this act.

E. The amount due pursuant to this act shall be reduced at a rate of Thirteen Dollars ($13.00) per calendar day beginning the first day after graduation from the education or training program. If for any reason the employee leaves the employment of the agency, the obligation will be considered due.

F. Violation of the provisions of the terms of the promissory note for training expenses entered into pursuant to this section shall give rise to a cause of action and suit may be commenced by the agency for and on behalf of the State of Oklahoma for restitution of any and all sums plus interest at the statutory rate, costs, and reasonable attorney fees. The provisions of this section shall not apply to persons who volunteer or are drafted into active military service subsequent to receiving training at state expense.

G. The agency of the executive branch may pay fees for employees to maintain licenses and certification required to provide services essential to the mission of the agency. The agency may require repayment of such fees pursuant to subsection D of this section.

H. The Office of Management and Enterprise Services shall promulgate rules pursuant to the implementation of this act.

Added by Laws 2016, c. 206, § 1, eff. Nov. 1, 2016.