OKLAHOMA CITY – Legislation designating the governance and coordination of Oklahoma’s statewide 211 support system has been signed into law.

House Bill 4095, authored by Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso and Sen. Joanna Dossett, D-Tulsa, names the Oklahoma 211 Collaborative as the lead entity for 211 call centers across the state that connect Oklahomans with critical services, including food, housing, clothing, transportation and medical assistance.

"This new law is deeply meaningful because behind every phone call is a real person or family facing hardship and searching for hope," Norwood said. "Whether someone needs help keeping the lights on, finding food for their children or getting connected to medical care, the 211 system is often the first place they turn. I am incredibly grateful to see this bill signed into law because it strengthens that lifeline for Oklahomans across our state."

The 211 hotline provides 24/7 access through phone, text and web-based services. The hotline connects residents with local and statewide resources during times of need and plays an important role in emergency response and recovery efforts.

"I would like to thank my legislative colleagues and the Governor for their support of 211," Dossett said. "The work we did together this session is a win for all Oklahomans."

In 2016, state funding for the 211 system was phased out because of significant budget constraints. Since then, nonprofit organizations, United Ways, health systems and community partners have worked together to sustain services through private fundraising and support.

HB4095 updates the Collaborative’s membership structure from 15 members to nine members, including three public-sector representatives and six private-sector representatives. Members will serve staggered initial terms followed by three-year terms and may be reappointed. Members serve without compensation.

The measure places the 211 Collaborative under the administrative oversight of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services and updates its structure to improve coordination, accountability and long-term sustainability of the statewide hotline system.

Senate Bill 1290, a companion bill to HB4095 and authored by Norwood and Dossett, was also signed into law creating the 211 Hotline Revolving Fund.

HB4095 takes effect Nov. 1.