Weaver Bill Authorizing County Homeless Relocation Assistance Programs Clears Senate

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Darrell Weaver, R-Moore, secured Senate approval Tuesday for Senate Bill 483, a measure authorizing counties to assist homeless individuals seeking to return home to their families or relocate for work or support.

The bill authorizes boards of county commissioners to accept private donations to create voluntary relocation assistance programs for homeless individuals who lack the means to travel. SB 483 establishes eligibility guidelines and requires county employees to make direct contact with a family member, employer, or other individual willing to receive the homeless individual before providing transportation.

“This legislation offers a practical solution for Oklahoma counties to manage their homeless populations, while ensuring those who are unhoused have a clear path to rehabilitation and support to return to their families and homes,” Weaver said. “I’ve witnessed firsthand the public safety threats created in our communities when homeless populations are left without resources, and this bill will help counties address those issues by safely moving individuals off the streets and into supportive environments.”

SB 483 also provides that an individual may not participate in an established county program if they are on parole or probation, unless their parole agent or probation officer authorizes the move to another jurisdiction. Program participants may also be unable to travel if they pose a direct risk to themself or others, are not sober at the time travel begins, or have participated in a relocation assistance program within this state within the previous two years.

Weaver thanked the Cleveland County Commissioners who collaborated on the bill.

“I appreciate the work of local leaders who helped shape this legislation and the input of county officials across the state. This bill gives counties another tool to support individuals in need without using taxpayer funds and ensures they have a voluntary avenue to get back on their feet,” Weaver added.

The legislation provides that a county that conducts a relocation assistance program shall not be liable for any claims of injuries or damages.

The measure, which passed the Senate by a 39-6 vote, now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration. SB 483 is authored in the House by Rep. Dell Kerbs, R-Shawnee.

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For more information, contact: communications@oksenate.gov.