Bill > HB1909

This bill establishes the Oklahoma Youth Advisory Council (OYAC), a new platform designed to engage young people in state governance and policy-making. The Council will consist of 53 members, including 48 representatives from Senate districts and 5 at-large members representing Native American tribal governments, with members aged 14-19 who are high school students. Senators will appoint district representatives, and the Council will develop its own application process, emphasizing diversity and representation. The Council's primary duties include adopting bylaws, identifying youth concerns, advising the Oklahoma Legislature on pending legislation, working with existing youth groups, and making recommendations on issues like education, employment, health, and government services. Members will meet at least four times annually, with two meetings during the legislative session, and will be required to produce annual reports to a newly created Review Committee. The Review Committee, composed of legislative and non-legislative members, will evaluate the Council's work and potentially recommend legislation based on the Council's findings. The bill aims to ensure that young Oklahomans have a meaningful voice in state policy-making, with the Council set to begin operations on November 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1909&Session=2600