Bill > SB1320

This bill amends Oklahoma's child placement law by establishing a clear order of preference for placing children outside their immediate family. The new order of preference is: first, family members related by no more than the third degree of consanguinity or affinity; second, members of the child's family's local religious or faith-based community; third, religious institutions; and fourth, any individual or agency the court determines will best serve the child's needs. The bill also strengthens restrictions on who can become a foster or adoptive parent by prohibiting placement with individuals convicted of certain felonies within the past five years, such as child abuse, domestic violence, or crimes against children. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision preventing Department of Human Services employees or their relatives from being foster or adoptive parents for two years after the employee's termination. The bill maintains existing protections against placing children with registered sex offenders or their spouses and requires criminal background checks for potential custodians. The changes aim to prioritize child safety and familial connections when determining child placements, with the new provisions becoming effective on November 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1320&Session=2600