OK SB748

Department of Human Services may create a pilot program to improve socioeconomic outcomes for children in state custody, subject to available funding and evaluation team consultation.

Pilot program must identify populations of children in state custody and their characteristics, develop service programs, coordinate state and local services, include urban and rural participation, and monitor program effectiveness.

Evaluation team of up to 16 members (maximum 2 from each of 8 entities including DHS, mental health services, universities, and Office of Juvenile Affairs) must annually report to Legislature on effective programs, statewide expansion potential, funding sources, professional training, and grant recommendations.

Department may contract for services and accept volunteer workers without compensation; Department authorized to promulgate rules for statewide expansion if evaluation team recommends it as economically feasible and practical.

Becomes effective November 1, 2017.