OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Gabe Woolley, R-Broken Arrow, held an interim study last week on judicial reform proposals aimed at increasing accountability within the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) before the House Criminal Judiciary Committee. The study focused on two of Woolley's measures, House Bill 1100 and House Bill 1164, which would strengthen judicial safeguards and prevent government overreach in child custody cases. “These reforms are about protecting families from unnecessary government intrusion,” Woolley said. “Children should not be displaced based on flimsy evidence or unchecked bureaucratic decisions. If DHS is going to step into a family’s life, it must be held to the highest standard of proof and full transparency.” HB1100 would increase the standard of evidence required before a child can be removed from parental custody. Courts would be required to find "clear and convincing" evidence, rather than the current "preponderance of evidence" standard, before allowing DHS to continue to keep a child from their family. The bill would also add an additional review hearing 15 days after a child is removed from the home to ensure judges receive full information before extending removals. HB1164 would expand accountability by establishing clear procedures for DHS actions, custody decisions and recordkeeping. The measure includes safeguards for emergency motions, regular court reassessments, reporting requirements and audits. It would also provide civil remedies and criminal penalties for agency noncompliance. Woolley said the measures represent a commitment to ensuring government remains accountable to the people it serves. “No government agency should operate without oversight, especially one entrusted with the most sensitive responsibility of protecting children,” Woolley said. “Oklahomans expect their constitutional rights to be respected, and these bills are about putting power back where it belongs, which is always into the hands of families and the courts, not unchecked bureaucrats.” Those who attended and spoke at the study included former OKDHS employees, private investigators, impacted families, attorneys and lawmakers. Woolley thanked participants and pledged to continue working with DHS leadership to improve services while protecting constitutional rights. “While DHS was unable to attend this session, I want to thank Director Cartmell for the conversations we’ve had so far,” Woolley said. “I look forward to further discussions that will make the department stronger and more accountable to Oklahoma families.” HB1100 and HB1164 remain eligible for consideration in the upcoming 2026 Second Regular Session.