Bill > SB421

This bill modifies Oklahoma's Parents' Bill of Rights by expanding and clarifying parental rights regarding their minor children. The bill maintains existing provisions that protect parents' rights to direct their child's education, upbringing, moral and religious training, and healthcare decisions, while adding some new specifications. Specifically, the bill now explicitly requires healthcare providers to give clear and conspicuous notice of parents' right to access their child's medical records. The bill also reinforces parents' rights to consent to biometric scans, DNA record creation, and video/voice recordings of their children, with specific exceptions for school safety, academic activities, law enforcement investigations, and forensic interviews. The legislation emphasizes that these rights cannot be used to engage in unlawful conduct or child abuse, and it preserves the ability of courts, law enforcement, and child welfare agencies to act within their official capacities. Additionally, the bill includes a provision that attempts to encourage or coerce a minor to withhold information from their parents could result in disciplinary action for state employees. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2025, and underscores the state's commitment to protecting parental rights while maintaining safeguards for child welfare.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb421&Session=2600