House Bill No. 1965, introduced by Williams, seeks to amend various sections of the Oklahoma Children's Code and the Oklahoma Juvenile Code to strengthen the legal framework surrounding child welfare. The bill introduces new definitions for terms such as "abandonment," "abuse," and "deprived child," and establishes procedures for waiving jury trials and preparing individualized service plans. It allows district attorneys to file petitions for the termination of parental rights under specific circumstances and outlines the conditions for such terminations, while also providing exceptions based on the child's age and relationship with the parent. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Office of Juvenile Affairs conduct assessments when informal adjustments are made, ensuring that children's needs are adequately addressed.

The legislation emphasizes the importance of individualized service plans tailored to the specific needs of children and their families, requiring clear language and measurable goals within these plans. It stipulates that if a parent fails to correct the circumstances leading to a child's deprivation within fifteen months, a petition for termination of parental rights must be filed. The bill clarifies that a parent's incarceration alone is not sufficient for termination of rights, and it outlines the conditions under which a child in foster care may not be returned to the parent. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the legal processes surrounding child welfare, ensuring timely interventions and prioritizing the best interests of the child throughout the process.