SECTION 340:110-1-42. Legal base and authority

(a)   The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) is responsible for implementing the Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act. [10 O.S. § 401 et seq.] This Act mandates that a license must be obtained from OKDHS to provide care for children away from their own homes. The child care facilities subject to licensing that are addressed in this Part are residential child care facilities and child-placing agencies. Residential facilities operated by OKDHS are certified. The responsibilities of OKDHS in relation to these facilities include:

(1)   developing minimum requirements for the care and protection of children cared for in child care facilities;

(2)   assisting child care providers in achieving maximum standards;

(3)   providing continuing technical assistance and consultation to the facility;

(4)   developing sufficient and adequate facilities for child care in the community;

(5)   issuing licenses based upon compliance with minimum requirements;

(6)   investigating complaints received against child care facilities; and

(7)   taking corrective action as authorized by the Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act and stated policy based upon non-compliance with minimum requirements.

(b)   OKDHS has established the Oklahoma Child Care Services to carry out the responsibility of the Oklahoma Child Care Facilities Licensing Act.

[Source: Added at 11 Ok Reg 399, eff 10-15-93 (emergency); Added at 11 Ok Reg 2773, eff 6-13-94; Amended at 17 Ok Reg 462, eff 10-19-99 (emergency); Amended at 17 Ok Reg 1339, eff 5-11-00; Amended at 18 Ok Reg 2144, eff 6-11-01; Amended at 19 Ok Reg 221, eff 11-1-01 (emergency); Amended at 19 Ok Reg 1171, eff 5-13-02; Amended at 20 Ok Reg 1274, eff 6-1-03; Amended at 25 Ok Reg 1962, eff 7-1-08]