Children; Oklahoma Children's Code; procedures; jury trial; waived; permanency hearing procedures; court; reunification; effective date.

HB 1966 modifies Oklahoma's Children's Code to change jury trial procedures for parental rights termination cases and strengthen permanency planning for children in foster care. It clarifies when parents can demand a jury trial (only when termination is requested in the initial petition or after a deprivation hearing) and sets strict timelines for scheduling such trials. The bill also requires individualized service plans for children adjudicated as deprived to be written in plain language, developed with family input, and include specific details like service schedules, health records, and measurable progress criteria. These plans must consider parents' work schedules and transportation needs, and be signed by all key parties including the child's attorney and tribe. The bill directly affects parents facing termination proceedings, children in foster care, and the courts handling these cases.