Senate Bill 424 Summary

• Amends the definition of "emergency shelters" and "shelter host homes" in the Oklahoma Juvenile Code (10A O.S. 2011, Section 2-1-103) as part of core community-based services.

• Expands emergency shelter services to include living accommodations available twenty-four (24) hours a day for short-term periods (less than ninety days) for children and youth in crisis situations such as abandonment, abuse, neglect, runaway, respite, or situations requiring law enforcement or court involvement.

• Authorizes shelters and shelter host homes to provide care, education, mental health assessment and treatment, counseling, recreational activities, medical care, and referrals to help minimize trauma and facilitate transition to permanent placement.

• Takes effect July 1, 2013, with an emergency declaration allowing immediate implementation upon passage and approval.