Bill No. 1565 amends the Oklahoma Children's Code to enhance the reporting and investigation processes for child abuse and neglect. The bill mandates that any referral received by the Department of Human Services (DHS) alleging abuse or neglect, where the alleged perpetrator is not responsible for the child's welfare, must be immediately reported in writing to the appropriate local law enforcement agency. Additionally, the hotline supervisor is required to ensure that such reports are made, and DHS must maintain a record of these transmissions. The bill also includes provisions for the electronic recording of referrals and establishes a system for tracking calls received by the hotline.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing language to clarify the responsibilities of the DHS and law enforcement in cases of child abuse or neglect. It removes the option for verbal referrals to law enforcement, requiring written communication instead, and emphasizes the need for thorough investigations when there is a history of deprived petitions or multiple referrals involving the same family. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and aims to improve the safety and welfare of children in Oklahoma by ensuring timely and effective responses to allegations of abuse and neglect.