OK HB1966

Jury trial demands for termination of parental rights must be filed in writing within 15 days of notice, and trials must commence within 6 months of the scheduling order unless exceptional circumstances exist

Failure to file a written jury demand within the prescribed time or failure to appear without good cause shall result in automatic waiver of jury trial rights (changed from "may" to "shall")

Removes the court's authority to call a jury trial on its own motion in termination of parental rights cases

Individualized service plans must now consider each family's specific circumstances including the parent's work schedule, mode of transportation, and distance from home and work to service providers

Permanency hearings must consider whether the child has a close and positive relationship with the parent when determining placement with a fit and willing relative, and courts must hold a permanency hearing within 30 days of a scheduled termination trial if adoption is the goal