Nick

Nick

Monday, February 16, 2009

Bill seeks to streamline children's services

Associated Press - February 16, 2009 6:15 PM ET

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - The Senate Rules Committee has voted to create Oklahoma's first-ever Children's Cabinet to improve state services for children.

Sen. Jay Paul Gumm, a Democrat from Durant, says the legislation will endeavor to remove barriers that prevent Oklahoma children from living healthy lives and maximizing their potential.

Gumm says Oklahoma ranks among the 10 worst states in infant mortality, teenage death rates and child poverty.

The Children's Cabinet would be comprised of 15 officials whose agencies have interest in children's issues. The Oklahoma Commission on Children and Youth would provide support staff.

The bill now goes to the full Senate for consideration.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

3 comments:

Yogi♪♪♪ said...

This sounds promising.

Wayne Rohde said...

I hope that they do not stack it with state agency staff.

They need the private sector to be a majority player in this cabinet.

Mike said...

The state's involvement with children is a recipe for disaster.

How can anyone take seriously the following "(The Cabinet will)remove barriers that prevent Oklahoma children from living healthy lives and maximizing their potential."?