HB 2648 Summary

• Modifies jurisdiction requirements for child custody and adoption proceedings in Oklahoma courts, establishing that jurisdictional issues shall be governed by the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (43 O.S. 551-101 through 551-402).

• Establishes that courts may select attorneys to represent birth mothers (compensated by adoptive parents) when necessary to protect the birth mother's interests, and allows courts to approve attorney fees negotiated prior to adoption petition filing.

• Prohibits private attorneys from using attorney fees received from adoptive parents for any expenses of the birth mother other than those specifically authorized by law.

• Permits reasonable small gifts to birth mothers not exceeding $100, and increases the initial authorization for living and transportation expenses from $500 to $1,000 without requiring prior court approval.

• Effective date: November 1, 2010.