Bill > HB1971

This bill establishes the Accountability, Transparency, and Protection for Exploited Youth Act, which aims to protect juveniles in state-run and private juvenile facilities from sexual misconduct and exploitation. The bill requires all employees, contractors, volunteers, and third parties working in juvenile facilities to immediately report any suspected sexual misconduct or exploitation to the facility supervisor and a newly established Independent Oversight Committee. Failure to report such incidents can result in criminal prosecution, with potential penalties of up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine. The bill creates an Independent Oversight Committee with broad investigative powers, including the ability to subpoena witnesses and collaborate with law enforcement. It also establishes significant civil liability provisions, allowing juvenile victims or their representatives to sue the Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA) or contracted entities for negligence, with potential civil fines of up to $50,000 per juvenile victim. The legislation mandates annual training for employees on preventing and identifying sexual misconduct and requires the Oversight Committee to submit an annual report to the Oklahoma Legislature. Additionally, the bill provides a mechanism for limited disclosure of juvenile records in cases of sexual violence, allowing access to specific parties such as law enforcement, legal guardians, and court-appointed advocates while maintaining strict confidentiality protections for uninvolved individuals. The act is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, signaling a comprehensive approach to protecting vulnerable youth in juvenile facilities.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1971&Session=2600