Library: News Release
Phone: (405) 521-3027, Fax: (405) 522-3146
e-mail: Mary.Leaver@okdhs.org
OKLAHOMA CITY -- The final portion of legislation intended to further strengthen the Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ oversight of child care facilities has been completed.
An online child care restricted registry will be available to the public on July 1, 2010, as mandated by a law passed during the 2009 legislative session. Under HB 2643, the Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act, OKDHS has established and will maintain an online database of individuals restricted from working or residing in a child care facility. This registry, named Joshua’s List, will be accessible to the public.
Oklahoma Child Care Services has established the procedure for recording persons who have confirmed abuse or neglect in a child care facility; a revocation or denial of a facility license; or a specified criminal history.
“To determine if an individual is restricted from employment or residence, child care facilities are required to conduct a search of the registry. Oklahoma Child Care Services will verify that the registry search has been conducted,” said Lesli Blazer, director, OCCS. “The public will also have access to obtain the same information about an individual.”
During the initial rollout period, the registry will continually be evaluated and any necessary adjustments will be made as needed, Blazer said.
A letter and training DVD will soon be sent to child care facilities to explain how they can access the child care restricted registry. OCCS is also printing revised versions of their child care requirements to include information about the registry.
HB 2643 was signed by Gov. Brad Henry on June 2, 2009. The legislation expanded the use of emergency orders to close any unlicensed child care facility operating in Oklahoma that is not in compliance with mandated child care licensing requirements. The law also required OKDHS post childcare inspection records online. Child Care Locator/Summary of Facility Monitoring.
Most sections of the bill went into effect on Nov. 1, 2009, but the section pertaining to the restricted registry becomes effective July 1, 2010.
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