Oklahoma Senate Bill SB969

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Children; authorizing breastfeeding of child in foster care under certain conditions. Effective date.

Impact

The passage of SB969 is expected to facilitate a supportive environment for infants in foster care, allowing them to have access to breast milk, which may not only provide them with nutritional advantages but also promote a bond between the caregiver and the child. The bill emphasizes the need for informed consent from biological parents and oversight from state authorities to ensure that the interests of the child are prioritized. By empowering foster caregivers to breastfeed, the bill could enhance the overall health and welfare of children who may otherwise miss out on the benefits of breastfeeding due to their foster status.

Summary

Senate Bill 969 seeks to authorize breastfeeding of children under two years of age in foster care settings under specified conditions. The bill allows a lactating female who is a foster caregiver to breastfeed a child if she obtains authorization from the Department of Human Services and secures prior written consent from the biological parent of the child, where feasible. This legislation aims to promote the well-being of infants in foster care by enabling them to receive the nutritional benefits of breastfeeding, which is considered crucial for their development.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB969 may include concerns regarding the logistical challenges of obtaining consent from biological parents, as well as the need for clear guidelines from the Department of Human Services to implement this policy effectively. There may also be debates on the implications for the foster care system, such as the potential for added responsibilities on foster parents and the involvement of state agencies in family decisions. Supporters of the bill may argue that it promotes positive outcomes for infants in care, while critics could raise questions about the practicality and enforcement of the proposed regulations.