The bill amends the Oklahoma Children's Code to strengthen child protection laws by changing the evidentiary standard for adjudication from "a preponderance of the evidence" to "clear and convincing evidence." It requires courts to hold hearings to assess if a child needs immediate protection, with a directive to release the child if no such need is established. Additionally, individuals who do not comply with court orders related to child protection will face felony charges upon conviction. The bill also clarifies definitions related to child welfare, such as "abandonment," "abuse," and "deprivation," and emphasizes the court's responsibility to act in the child's best interest.

Further amendments focus on custody procedures, including the requirement for the Department to notify relatives of a child's removal within thirty days, unless such notification is deemed contrary to the child's best interests due to family violence. The bill mandates emergency custody hearings within two judicial days of a child's removal and establishes a court review hearing within fifteen days to determine the necessity of continued protection. If insufficient evidence is found, the child must be returned to their parent or guardian within 48 hours, with all related records expunged. Review hearings are required at least every six months, with penalties for non-compliance classified as felonies, ensuring timely judicial oversight and promoting family involvement in child welfare cases. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.