Today, the Oklahoma House of Representatives approved legislation to allocate $80 million from the Legacy Capital Financing Fund to construct, refurbish and expand life science facilities at Oklahoma State University.

Rep. John Talley, R-Stillwater, presented House Bill 2893 on the House floor. The bill aims to construct a new state-of-the-art life sciences building to serve as a dedicated classroom home facility for all undergraduate science students. Additionally, it seeks to support the strategic expansion of STEM graduates, enhance the recruitment of top researchers, and bolster the state's STEM-focused industry.

"This is a significant win for OSU and represents a major step forward in the university's statewide impact," Talley said. "The state-of-the-art facilities will not only enhance access to STEM education but also address the pressing need for skilled professionals in Oklahoma's workforce."

OSU's current life sciences buildings, constructed between 1938 and 1960, do not reflect the numerous scientific advances since that time.

The new 220,000-square-foot Life and Physical Science facility will cater to over 90,000 OSU undergraduate and graduate students over the next 20 years. The funding will address healthcare practitioner shortages across multiple professions: physicians, nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, dental, veterinary medicine and other critical areas.  

Talley said HB2893 will bolster OSU's position as a leading national research institution, promoting collaboration and innovation through resource sharing across academic disciplines.

HB2893 covers fifty percent of the required funding, while OSU has committed to securing the remaining $80 million through private donations. It passed the House 83 – 9 and now heads to the Senate for consideration.