Protecting children against abuse: Proposed law to speed up criminal investigations

A bill progressing through Oklahoma’s legislature would require any calls of abuse coming into Oklahoma’s DHS hotline alleging child abuse to be immediately reported to law enforcement.

Tuesday, March 11th 2025, 5:31 pm

By: Amanda Taylor

Lawmakers Return To Capitol For Already Fraught, Busy Session

OKLAHOMA CITY -

A bill progressing through Oklahoma’s legislature would require any calls of abuse coming into Oklahoma’s DHS hotline alleging child abuse to be immediately reported to law enforcement.

The hope is it will speed up a criminal investigation. Rep. Collin Duel (R-Guthrie) says that right now, DHS must report to law enforcement at some point during their investigation. This change would make it so a criminal investigation could begin at once, the same time as the DHS investigation.

“Protecting Oklahoma children is the No. 1 priority of this legislation," Duel said. "Getting law enforcement involved from the moment a claim of abuse or neglect is made can save valuable time in ensuring children are safe and that investigations of abuse or neglect are conducted appropriately."

House Bill 1565 passed the House with a vote of 88-4. It now moves to the Senate. If signed into law, it would take effect on November 1.

Amanda Taylor

Amanda Taylor has anchored news coverage from the devastation in Moore after the 2013 tornado, to Cushing after the 2016 earthquake, and has traveled across state lines to get the whole story. Amanda Taylor can be seen on weekdays co-anchoring newscasts and reporting on issues important to Oklahomans.