To “ensure that these kids don’t fall through the cracks,” the responsibility for “shepherding” the foster children would be placed on the Regents because the DHS has a heavy caseload and high staff turnover, Inman, D-Del City, explained.
“We’d be penny wise and pound foolish if we don’t encourage these children and help them advance their education,” said Kouplen, D-Beggs. “These kids are still in the system; they have not been adopted out,” Inman emphasized.
HB 1672 passed the House, 87-6, and HB 1848 was endorsed, 91-4. Both measures now will be referred to the state Senate.
OHLAP provides awards equivalent to all or part of tuition expenses for students who complete the program’s requirements while in high school. The awards may be used at accredited Oklahoma public and private colleges and for certain courses offered at public career technology centers.
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http://www.okhouse.tv/radViewVideo.aspx?VideoID=683
MIKE W. RAY Media Director, Democratic Caucus Oklahoma House of Representatives (405) 962-7819 office (405) 245-4411 mobile
