Bill > SB455

This bill modifies the Oklahoma Children's Code by updating and refining numerous definitions related to child welfare and protection. The bill introduces several new definitions and makes technical amendments to existing definitions, including adding a new term "felt safety" which means an individual's experience of emotional and physical security based on their internal response and environment. The bill clarifies and expands definitions related to child abuse, neglect, abandonment, and various types of care and services, such as updating definitions for "community-based services", "drug-endangered child", and "kinship care". The amendments also provide more nuanced descriptions of terms like "safety threat" and "investigation", adding greater specificity to how child protective services assess and respond to potential child welfare concerns. The bill includes changes to definitions of foster care services, residential programs, and terms related to child advocacy, such as expanding the definition of "guardian ad litem" and "child advocacy center". These modifications aim to provide more comprehensive and precise language for legal and social service professionals working with child welfare cases. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, giving state agencies and professionals time to prepare for the updated terminology and definitions.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb455&Session=2600