This bill establishes a statewide continuum of care framework for homeless services in Oklahoma, to be administered by the State Department of Health. It defines key terms related to homeless services, including "continuum of care," "homeless service provider," and "public funds." The bill mandates that homeless service providers receiving public funds must comply with minimum operational, public health, safety, financial, and reporting standards set by the Department. Additionally, it requires local boards of county commissioners to coordinate with these providers and local public safety authorities, maintain registries, and submit compliance reports.
The legislation also outlines procedures for complaint investigation, enforcement actions for noncompliance, and the establishment of a public safety and health liaison for each provider. It emphasizes the importance of financial accountability and transparency, requiring providers to submit annual reports detailing funding sources, expenditures, and service outcomes without disclosing personally identifiable information. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not supersede local zoning or land use authority, ensuring that local governments retain control over the approval and siting of homeless service facilities. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.