Bergstrom files bill to protect students from predators

OKLAHOMA CITY – On Thursday, Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, filed Senate Bill 1198. This bill would ensure that all school district boards of education in Oklahoma implement a comprehensive program focused on sex trafficking and exploitation prevention and awareness for students.

SB 1198 underscores the importance of education as a potent tool in the fight against sex trafficking and exploitation. If passed, the bill would allow school district boards to collaborate with law enforcement agencies in presenting these programs, fostering a cooperative approach to safeguarding students. Furthermore, SB 1198 would require school districts to make these programs accessible for parental review on their respective websites, ensuring that parents are also informed and equipped to protect their children. Parents will have the ability to opt their children out of presentations.

Sex trafficking and exploitation represent serious threats to the safety and well-being of our children. The introduction of SB 1198 signifies a significant step toward equipping students and parents with the knowledge and resources needed to prevent and combat these heinous crimes.

"This is a critical measure to ensure that our schools actively contribute to the prevention of sex trafficking and exploitation,” Bergstrom said. “It's a shared responsibility of schools, law enforcement, and parents to create a protective environment for our youth. By educating students and parents, we empower them with the awareness necessary to recognize and respond to these dangers."

Additionally, the State Department of Education (SDE) will be creating a video program divided into multiple segments on this topic for parents to view on the SDE website. They will also provide links to materials that complement the videos.

“Parents should always be in control of what their children are exposed to, especially in this type of subject area. My bill guarantees that,” Bergstrom said.

SB 1198 will be available to be heard during the Second Regular Session beginning February 5, 2024.

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For more information, contact: Sen. Micheal Bergstrom at 405-521-5561, or email Micheal.Bergstrom@oksenate.gov.