This bill amends Section 1-8-102 of the Oklahoma Children's Code, specifically regarding the standards for court-appointed special advocates (CASA). The amendments include modifications to the education and training course standards, as well as the background check requirements for individuals seeking to become CASA volunteers or employees. Notably, the bill removes references to "national" standards, indicating a shift towards compliance solely with Oklahoma CASA standards. Additionally, it specifies that local CASA programs must conduct thorough background checks, including child welfare records and criminal history searches, while also requiring checks from previous states for individuals who have lived in Oklahoma for less than one year.

Furthermore, the bill provides legal immunity for individuals acting as court-appointed special advocates, presuming they are acting in good faith during judicial proceedings. This immunity extends to those in management positions within CASA organizations, protecting them from civil liability related to the actions of advocates or directors. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2026.