Oklahoma passes legislation to streamline adoptions

A new law in Oklahoma streamlines the adoption process for adopting immediate relatives.

House Bill 2647, called the Shai Cooper Act, was automatically enacted May 11 after passing both chambers of the Oklahoma Legislature unanimously and sitting on the governor’s desk for 5 days of the legislative session.

The measure creates guidelines to allow a court to waive preplacement home studies, making the adoption process faster. Those eligible for the streamlined process include the child’s siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles.

To apply for a home study waiver, the adopter must have been married for at least one year and have no felony convictions or protection orders against them. 

“The unanimous, bipartisan support behind the Shai Cooper Act shows just how committed the Legislature is to protecting children while making it easier for loving relatives to provide a safe, permanent home,” said bill sponsor Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, in a release from his office. “I’m incredibly proud to see this bill, inspired by my constituent Shai Cooper, become law and make a real difference for families across Oklahoma.” 

Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, championed the proposal in the Senate. 

“The enactment of the Shai Cooper Act marks a significant step forward in our commitment to Oklahoma’s children and families,” Thompson said. “By allowing courts to waive preplacement home studies for qualified relatives, we are removing unnecessary barriers that delay permanent, loving placements. This law honors the legacy of Shai Cooper and reflects our dedication to prioritizing the best interests of our most vulnerable citizens.” 

It comes as other states are also promoting adoption. 

In Oregon, lawmakers recently passed a bill to designate August 25 as “Oregon Adoption Day” to celebrate adoption as a life-affirming choice.  

Rep. Lucetta Elmer, R-McMinnville, introduced the bill to honor the day she was adopted.  

“Adoption is an act of courage,” Elmer said. “It requires sacrifice, selflessness, and a whole lot of faith from all sides. It weaves together lives in ways that reflect the best of our humanity, and it is worthy of recognition.”  

Additionally, U.S. Senators recently filed the bipartisan Adoption Tax Credit Refundability Act. It would make the existing federal adoption tax credit fully refundable.  

“Support for adoptive families is essential to ensure more children find the stable, loving home they deserve,” Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-North Dakota, a lead sponsor of the bill, said. 

The Oklahoma law will take effect on Nov. 1.