Library: Policy

340:105-1-10. State Council on Aging

Revised 9-15-21

(a) Purpose. The purpose, function, and rules of the State Council on Aging (Council) are delineated in the Council bylaws.  The bylaws provide that the Council advises the Aging Services (AS) director on all matters pertaining to the development, implementation, and administration of AS programs to assist AS in identifying the needs and representing the interests of older Oklahomans.

(1) Over 50 percent of the Council must be 60 years of age or older, the remainder being representative of public and private service organizations or agencies. 

(2) Meetings must be held four times per year, but special meetings may be held when deemed necessary. 

(3) AS is responsible for providing staff assistance to the Council to ensure effective operation. 

(4) Members are appointed by the Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS) Director, upon the AS director's recommendation, serve staggered, three-year terms, and may be re-appointed for only one additional, consecutive term. 

(5) Former members may be appointed following one year's absence from Council service.

(b) State Council on Aging Duties.  State Council on Aging duties include:

(A) communicating older Oklahomans' needs, conditions, and concerns to entities, including the:

(i) OKDHS Director and AS director;

(ii) State of Oklahoma Governor's Office;

(iii) Oklahoma State Legislature;

(iv) United States Oklahoma Congressional Delegates;

(v) applicable state agencies;

(vi) applicable federal agencies; and

(vii) general public;

(B) reviewing and commenting on all rules and policies, budget appropriations, planning regulations, and legislation that benefit or adversely impact older Oklahomans, and advocating for their concerns and issues while maintaining high visibility and a strong voice;

(C) monitoring and evaluating the provision of services to older Oklahomans;

(D) conducting public forums and seeking input on the needs, conditions, programs, or issues involving older Oklahomans; and

(E) advising the AS director on all matters pertaining to:

(i) development and implementation of policies, budget appropriations, planning, regulations, and standards;

(ii) effective and efficient administration of division programs;

(iii) development of training and educational programs; and

(iv) administration of AS functions.

(c) Cross reference. Refer to Oklahoma Administrative Code 340:105-10-12.