OKLAHOMA CITY – A measure designed to strengthen protections for children in qualified residential treatment programs has successfully passed the House with unanimous support.

House Bill 2207, authored by Rep. Mike Lay, R-Jenks, allows qualified residential treatment programs to petition for protective orders on behalf of children in their care against third parties who pose a physical or emotional threat. The legislation ensures courts expedite the review of these petitions to provide timely intervention for vulnerable children.

“This bill is about giving children in residential care the protection they deserve,” said Rep. Mike Lay. “By allowing these facilities to take swift legal action against those who pose a threat, we are reinforcing our commitment to their safety and well-being.”

The bill amends 10A O.S. 2021, Section 1-1-105, by defining “third party” as it relates to children and outlining the legal process for residential programs to seek protective orders. Facilities must provide evidence of harassment, abuse, neglect, exploitation or other harmful behaviors when filing a petition.

HB2207, with a 92-0 vote, now moves to the Senate for consideration.