Rep. Erick Harris, R-Edmond, has passed legislation aimed at protecting parental rights and providing clarity in the state's child welfare and adoption laws through the House.

House Bill 3586, known as the "Right to Raise Act," would ensure that individuals cannot be denied the opportunity to become adoptive or foster parents based solely on the individual's desire to raise or reference a child by their biological sex. The bill also specifies that such actions alone cannot be considered child abuse or neglect.

Harris said the legislation reinforces parents’ rights while ensuring Oklahoma’s child welfare laws remain focused on protecting children.

"Parents should not have to worry that expressing their sincerely held beliefs or using biologically accurate language could be mischaracterized as a crime," Harris said. "House Bill 3586 provides important clarity in statute and protects the fundamental right of parents to raise their children without unnecessary government interference."

HB3586 passed the House with a vote of 75–15 and now moves to the Senate for further consideration, where it is authored by Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond.