The bill proposes a significant restructuring of the administration of several federal assistance programs in Oklahoma, transferring oversight from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to the Department of Human Services. This includes the Weatherization Assistance Program, the Community Services Block Grant, and the Emergency Solutions Grants Program. The bill mandates the transfer of all related powers, duties, records, assets, and funds to the Department of Human Services, which will now be responsible for receiving federal funds and ensuring compliance with necessary requirements. Additionally, a transition team will be established to facilitate this transfer, and employee protections during the transition will be included.

Furthermore, the bill updates statutory language and eligibility criteria for grants under the Energy Conservation Assistance Fund, requiring energy audits before grants are issued and capping the maximum grant amount at $3,000. It also redefines the role of community action agencies, which will now be designated by the Department of Human Services, and outlines their responsibilities, including compliance with regulations and evaluation of service areas. Significant deletions from current law include references to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, which are replaced with the Department of Human Services, streamlining the administration of community services and enhancing the efficiency of poverty reduction efforts in the state. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 74-5003.4, 74-5003.5, 74-5003.7
Amended And Engrossed: 74-5040.4