OK HB1967

Amends Section 1-4-204 to prioritize placement of children in state custody with relatives and kinship connections, with courts required to report efforts to secure such placements.

Grants foster parents who have cared for a child for 24 months or more first priority in adoption proceedings if parental rights are terminated and the foster parents seek adoption.

Amends Section 1-7-105 to authorize children in Department of Human Services custody to maintain communication and relationships with prior foster families if in the child's best interests.

Adds additional procedural requirements and rights protections for children in residential care facilities, including access to communication with former foster families and grievance procedures.

Takes effect November 1, 2011.