Bill > HB3380

This bill, known as the "Fostering the Future for Oklahoman Children and Families Act," directs the Department of Human Services (DHS) to undertake several key tasks within 180 days of its effective date to improve child welfare services and support for families. These tasks include updating regulations to enhance the collection, publication, and utility of child welfare data, modernizing information systems with advanced technology like predictive analytics and artificial intelligence to improve caregiver recruitment and matching, and publishing an annual scorecard to measure progress on critical outcomes such as reducing foster care entries, improving investigation times, and decreasing child injuries or fatalities. Additionally, DHS is tasked with establishing a "Fostering the Future" initiative to create educational and employment opportunities for individuals transitioning out of foster care, developing an online platform to connect them with resources, and strategizing to reallocate funds for their success. The bill also mandates that DHS address policies that might unfairly exclude qualified providers based on religious beliefs and increase partnerships with faith-based organizations. Importantly, the act clarifies that it does not affect the authority of other government agencies and will be implemented according to existing laws and available funding, with DHS required to submit an annual report on its progress.

Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3380&Session=2600