OK SB1796

Foster parents may use three types of temporary care arrangements: alternate caregivers (up to 14 consecutive days), respite care from approved foster families, and informal care arrangements with friends, neighbors, or relatives (up to 72 hours)

Alternate caregivers must be assessed and approved by the Department of Human Services, with foster parents required to identify one to two alternate caregivers for emergencies or extended breaks

Alternate caregivers and all adult household members must complete OSBI criminal background checks, DHS child welfare records searches, registry checks, and home evaluations

Informal caregivers do not require DHS approval, but foster parents must apply the "reasonable and prudent parent standard" and cannot use anyone DHS has determined to be unsafe

Effective date is November 1, 2026