Bill > HB3698

This bill establishes the "Student Eviction Assistance Revolving Fund" within the Oklahoma State Department of Education to address chronic absenteeism linked to unstable housing by providing legal representation to indigent tenants with school-aged children in eviction cases, known as forcible entry and detainer actions. To qualify for this legal assistance, individuals must be referred by their child's school district, and the Oklahoma State Department of Education will contract with eligible non-profit organizations that primarily offer legal aid to determine client eligibility and provide services across the state, with funding allocated based on poverty levels and student absenteeism rates. The bill also mandates annual reports on fund expenditures, requires contracted organizations to maintain detailed financial records for five years, and mandates annual audits of these organizations, with the costs covered by the organizations themselves, and the audit reports submitted to the State Auditor and Inspector and the Attorney General, with the act taking effect on November 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb3698&Session=2600