OK SB1771

Modifies the Youthful Offender Act to clarify that eligible 17-year-olds should have the opportunity to be processed as youthful offenders and establishes a maximum age of 18 years and 5 months for such offenders to remain in Office of Juvenile Affairs custody or supervision.

Changes language regarding juveniles and youthful offenders from "escaping" to "running away or being absent without leave (AWOL)" from staff-secure or nonsecure placements, and authorizes law enforcement to apprehend and detain such individuals.

Establishes that running away or AWOL by a juvenile from placement constitutes a delinquent act, and allows courts to consider such actions by youthful offenders as grounds for transferring them to the adult system.

Expands the Therapeutic Recreation Practice Act exemptions to include individuals providing services in state facilities or to children in state custody.

Declares an emergency to make the act effective immediately upon passage and approval.