ENGR. H. B. NO. 3474 Summary

• Amends 21 O.S. 2011, Section 843.5 to modify the definition of "child abuse" to include harm or failure to protect from harm to the health, safety or welfare of a child, including nonaccidental physical or mental injury, sexual abuse, or sexual exploitation.

• Removes direct references to Title 10A definitions and instead defines child abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation within the statute itself for clarity and statutory consistency.

• Adds detailed definitions of "enabling" crimes for child abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation, including what "permit" means in the context of authorizing care when knowing a child will be at risk.

• Maintains existing criminal penalties including imprisonment up to life and fines of $500-$5,000, with enhanced penalties (25 years to life) for sexual abuse or exploitation of children under 12 years old.

• Effective date: November 1, 2014.