Bill > HB2892

This bill amends two existing Oklahoma statutes to expand the powers of the Executive Director of the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth by authorizing them to request investigations through the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) or other law enforcement agencies in specific circumstances. Specifically, the bill allows the Executive Director to initiate an investigation when there is reasonable belief of criminally injurious conduct, such as physical or sexual child abuse. The amendment adds the Executive Director to the list of authorized individuals who can request OSBI investigations, which previously included the Governor, Attorney General, and other specified officials. The bill preserves the existing confidentiality requirements for investigation records, ensuring that any information obtained remains protected except in specific circumstances outlined in the law, such as sharing with law enforcement or prosecutorial agencies. The changes aim to provide the Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth with an additional tool to address potential child abuse cases by facilitating more direct communication with investigative agencies. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to prepare for the new provisions.

Health and Social Services, Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2892&Session=2600