Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB423

Introduced
2/6/23  
Refer
2/7/23  
Report Pass
2/9/23  
Engrossed
2/27/23  
Refer
3/29/23  

Caption

Children; increasing allowable amount for certain adoption expenses; increasing age limit for certain relinquishment. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB423 would primarily affect the Oklahoma Adoption Code by allowing greater financial flexibility for prospective adoptive parents, facilitating the payment of living and transportation expenses for birth mothers without the need for extensive prior court approval. Furthermore, it aims to clarify legal protections against accusations of abandonment when parents relinquish their children safely to designated entities within the stipulated age limit.

Summary

Senate Bill 423 aims to amend various provisions relating to adoption in Oklahoma. The bill increases the allowable amount for certain expenses related to the adoption process, specifically raising the limit for payments made on behalf of a birth mother during the adoption planning process. It also seeks to modify the age limit for a parent to relinquish a child to a medical service provider or a child rescuer, extending it from thirty to sixty days. These amendments are designed to streamline adoption processes and define the responsibilities and authorized payments associated with adoption more clearly.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB423 is cautiously optimistic among supporters, particularly those involved in adoption advocacy and child welfare sectors. They see the bill as a means to enhance the safety and welfare of both birth mothers and children by providing better access to resources and adoption support. However, there might be concerns regarding the adequacy of oversight for the finances involved in the adoption process, ensuring that the well-being of the birth mother and child remains a priority.

Contention

Notable contentions may arise around the implications of increasing permissible expenses and the complexity of relinquishing rights associated with the extended age limit for children. Stakeholders could argue that while the increase in financial support for birth mothers is beneficial, it might also lead to potential exploitation or misunderstanding concerning the relinquishment process. Moreover, debates may focus on ensuring that procedures remain transparent and the rights of all parties involved—especially those of the birth mothers—are safeguarded throughout the adoption process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB187

Adoption expenses; increasing allowable amount for certain expenses. Effective date.

OK SB187

Adoption expenses; increasing allowable amount for certain expenses. Effective date.

OK HB1930

Children; adoption; amount; effective date.

OK HB1930

Children; adoption; amount; effective date.

OK HB1033

Children; adoption; amount; effective date

OK HB1033

Children; adoption; amount; effective date.

OK SB423

Children; certification as youthful offender or juvenile; modifying acts that shall cause certain persons to be held accountable as a youthful offender. Effective date.

OK HB2011

Children; exception; adoption; consent; effective date.

OK SB554

Liens; increasing allowable fee for processing of certain notice. Effective date.

OK SB420

Oklahoma Crime Victims Compensation Act; increasing time to file certain claim; increasing amounts of certain compensation. Effective date.

Similar Bills

LA SB231

Provides relative to the transfer of firearms for the violation of a protective order. (10/1/18)

TX SB642

Relating to the provision of mental health services for certain children at risk of relinquishment.

CA SB1459

State highways: relinquishment: State Route 183.

CA AB1764

State highways: relinquishment: Route 184.

CA AB2254

State highways: Route 107: relinquishment.

SC H3910

Jurisdiction

CA AB744

State highways: State Route 83: reduction.

CA AB2817

State highways: Route 1: relinquishment.