Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, has passed legislation through the House clarifying that people convicted of pedophilia cannot adopt children.

House Bill 2936 also prohibits people convicted of pedophilia from hiring a surrogate.

“Anyone who is a pedophile should not be entrusted with the care of a child,” Olsen said.

“The state has an obligation to protect children under its care, including pre-born children, from falling victim to this heinous crime.

“I’m glad to see this clarification pass unanimously so we can ensure this never occurs in Oklahoma.”

Olsen said that, while he isn’t aware of such a situation occurring in Oklahoma, he has learned it has happened in another state.

HB2936 passed the House unanimously on Tuesday and now moves to the Senate, where it is authored by Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain.

Rep. Jim Olsen represents District 2 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes portions of Seq. County.