The Oklahoma House gave its approval Wednesday of two bills which empower children in the Oklahoma Department of Human Services custody with additional rights. Representative Mark Lawson is the author of the bills.
House Bill 1273 lowers the age from 15 to 14 years old for a child to request reinstatement of parental rights. The move would align the age requirement with DHS rules allowing children 14 years old and older to provide input on their placement. The bill requires a minimum of three years since the termination of parental rights before reinstatement may be considered. HB 1273 also empowers DHS to represent the child with the District Attorney’s permission.
House Bill 1279 grants minors the right to a non-jury trial to determine if the minor needs treatment for mental illness or drug and alcohol dependency. Currently, a jury trial is required.
“These bills ensure children in state custody are well taken care of and also give them a voice and a level of control in their changing situation,” Lawson said. “I believe these bills will positively affect the lives of children across Oklahoma while ensuring the state fulfills its duty to provide them with a safe and caring home. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House for their unanimous support of these bills and of Oklahoma’s children.”
Senator Brenda Stanley will guide the bills through the Senate.
