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 empowers district attorneys to file petitions for the termination of parental rights under specific circumstances and outlines the conditions under which a court may terminate these rights, while also providing exceptions. 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 each child's unique circumstances, requiring these plans to consider factors like parents' work schedules and transportation needs. It sets specific timelines for the termination of parental rights, stipulating that petitions must be filed if a parent has not corrected the circumstances leading to a child's deprivation within fifteen months. The bill also clarifies that a parent's incarceration alone is not sufficient for termination of rights and outlines various factors to be considered in such cases. Overall, the amendments aim to enhance the legal processes and support systems for children and families involved in the child welfare system, prioritizing the best interests of the child while ensuring clarity and effectiveness in legal proceedings.