The "Accountability, Transparency, and Protection for Exploited Youth Act" seeks to improve the reporting and investigation of sexual misconduct in Oklahoma's juvenile facilities. It requires employees, contractors, and volunteers to report any incidents of sexual misconduct to both the facility supervisor and an Independent Oversight Committee established by the Office of Juvenile Affairs. Failure to report can lead to criminal prosecution, including imprisonment and fines. The Independent Oversight Committee will conduct impartial investigations, work with law enforcement, and send findings to the District Attorney. The bill also introduces civil liability for those who fail to report misconduct and mandates annual training for staff on recognizing and reporting such incidents.
Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to allow for the disclosure of juvenile records in cases of sexual violence while ensuring confidentiality for unrelated juveniles. It introduces new provisions regarding the confidentiality of preliminary inquiries into alleged delinquent acts, prohibiting the sharing of details about the district attorney's disposition of the matter. The bill also permits the inspection and disclosure of confidential records to specific educational institutions without a court order, provided the information is limited to what is necessary for the request. The agency must respond within five business days, and all disclosed information must remain confidential. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.