Oklahoma Expands Foster Care To Age 21 For Eligible Youth, Effective July 1, 2026

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) is launching a voluntary extended foster care program on July 1, 2026, for youth ages 18 to 21, allowing them to continue receiving services while working toward educational, employment, or independent living goals. DHS estimates an additional 2,600 individuals will be eligible to participate. The program is estimated to cost $28 million annually.

The program is intended to reduce the risk of adverse experiences after exiting foster care, including homelessness, substance use, and domestic violence, according to the DHS announcement. The extension was established through Senate Bill (SB) 1806, which was signed . . .