OK
Oklahoma Senate Bill SB226

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB226

Introduced
2/6/23  

Caption

Children; directing the Department of Human Services to create specified program. Effective date.

Impact

If passed, SB226 will have a significant impact on state laws related to child welfare and mental health services. It aims to reduce unnecessary removals of children from their homes for mental health issues, recognizing that such actions can be detrimental and do not address the root causes of emotional disturbances. The introduction of this bill signifies a policy shift towards prioritizing resources for mental health intervention before considering drastic measures of guardianship or custody by the state. This preventive approach intends to support families while adequately addressing the needs of children facing serious emotional challenges.

Summary

Senate Bill 226 establishes a framework for a preventative program aimed at ensuring that children who are not abused or neglected do not enter the custody or guardianship of the Department of Human Services (DHS) solely for receiving mental health services. This bill directs the DHS to collaborate with the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to create the necessary protocols and rules for the implementation of this program. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for mental health support without compromising child welfare status. It emphasizes preventive measures rather than punitive or custodial responses to children's mental health issues.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding SB226 revolves around the efficacy of proposed approaches in addressing children's mental health issues. Critics may argue about the adequacy of coordination between DHS and mental health agencies, assessing whether existing resources are sufficient and appropriately managed. Additionally, there may be debates over the potential risks associated with not placing children in protective custody when necessary. Balancing the nuances of child welfare preservation with the immediate need for effective mental health support services could lead to differing interpretations of the bill's impact and implementation.

Companion Bills

OK SB226

Carry Over Children; directing the Department of Human Services to create specified program. Effective date.

Previously Filed As

OK SB226

Children; directing the Department of Human Services to create specified program. Effective date.

OK HB1439

Children; investigations; Department of Human Services; exceptions; violations; complaints; effective date.

OK SB424

Child care; eliminating certain restrictions on the Department of Human Services. Effective date.

OK HB1630

Children; Department of Human Services; guardianship; information; signature; effective date.

OK HB1386

Children; definitions; term; effective date.

OK SB642

Oklahoma Children's Code; requiring the Director of the Department of Human Services to establish certain procedures. Effective date.

OK HB1369

Children; Children's Code; definitions; heinous and shocking neglect; effective date.

OK SB569

Medicaid; directing submission of certain State Plan Amendment for specified services. Effective date.

OK SB701

Oklahoma Children's Code; modifying definitions. Effective date.

OK HB1050

Human trafficking and child exploitation; creating the Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Prevention Act; directing retailers of Internet-enabled devices to equip products with certain filters; codification; effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.