The Oklahoma House this week threw its support behind House Bill 2361 which expands the Successful Adulthood Act better prepare young people in state foster care or leaving the juvenile justice system. It provides young people who have been in foster care for at least six months and are near 18 years old with their educational transcripts, diplomas, and any professional certificates earned. It does the same for youth leaving the Office of Juvenile Affairs custody.
Representative Brian Hill is the author of HB 2361. The Mustang Republican also authored a similar bill for individuals being released from Oklahoma Department of Corrections custody called the Sarah Stitt Act. That law is what he based his current legislation under consideration.
“The Successful Adulthood Act is about making sure young Oklahomans have the support they deserve as they navigate the tough adjustment from foster care into adulthood,” Hill said. “Providing these young adults with the tools and information they need will help them build a foundation for a successful future. By expanding the services and protections in the Successful Adulthood Act, we are helping these young people move forward with confidence and the resources to obtain employment, find housing and create a better life for themselves.”
Hill adds that this measure gives those youth a chance to have a stable start to a new life.
“This provision is a vital addition to the Successful Adulthood Act, ensuring that young people leaving state custody are equipped with the necessary documentation to smoothly move into adulthood and the workforce,” Hill stated. “With these resources, they will have a stronger chance of securing housing, employment, and education, ultimately becoming productive members of society and valued members of our communities.”
HB 2361 now heads to the Oklahoma Senate.
