House Approves 'Shai Cooper Act' to Streamline Adoption Process
The Oklahoma House of Representatives has approved the Shai Cooper Act, a bill aiming to streamline the adoption process while ensuring the safety of children. Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, introduced House Bill 2647 , which would establish clear provisions on when a court can waive preplacement home studies and expand the eligibility for these waivers to include immediate relatives of the child. Immediate relatives, including siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles, could apply for a home study waiver if they have been married for at least one year, have no felony convictions and have no protection orders against them. "The Shai Cooper Act ensures that children are given the best opportunities for stability and that family members who are committed to their well-being can act quickly to provide loving homes," Harris said. "By making this process more accessible and flexible, we are helping to strengthen families and protect the interests of our most vulnerable children. I was honored to carry this legislation in recognition of one of my constituents and help make this process easier for other Oklahomans who find themselves in similar situations." The bill is named after Harris' constituent 13-year-old Shai Cooper, who is adopted. HB2647 passed the House floor 86-0 and now moves to the Senate for consideration.