(a) Application.  This Section describes processes relating to grievances of minors in Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) custody who are residing in their own home, minors in OKDHS custody and youth in voluntary care in any type of foster care, and minors in OKDHS custody or youth in independent living who want to file an OKDHS grievance.

(b) Definitions.  The definitions in OAC 340:2-3-2 and 340:2-3-45(b) apply to this Section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.  

(c) Notice of Grievance Rights.  The assigned Child Welfare worker gives Form 15GR004E, Notice of Grievance Rights - Minors in OKDHS Custody, to the placement provider and to the client upon placement of the client, and annually thereafter.  This form is used to identify the local grievance coordinator and to explain the client's right to grieve.  After the client signs the form, a copy is given to the client and the original is maintained in the permanent record for the client.

(d) Filing and processing of grievance.  If the grievant files an OKDHS grievance as defined in OAC 340:2-3-45(b), the grievance is processed in accordance with OAC 340:2-3-45 unless otherwise provided in this Section.

(e) Contested grievances.  Contested grievances of residents are processed in accordance with OAC 340:2-3-46 unless otherwise provided in this Section.  When a grievant asks to appeal an OKDHS grievance, the appeal is processed in accordance with OAC 340:2-3-46.