The bill amends several sections of the Oklahoma Statutes related to forcible entry and detainer, specifically addressing the issuance and service of summonses in eviction cases. Key changes include extending the time frame for defendants to appear for trial from a maximum of ten days to fifteen days after the summons is issued, while also establishing that certain actions must still adhere to a five to ten-day notice period. Additionally, the bill increases the required notice period for serving summons from three days to seven days before the trial date. It also introduces gender-neutral language throughout the text and updates statutory language for clarity.

Furthermore, the bill specifies that if personal service cannot be achieved, alternative methods such as posting the summons on the premises or mailing it to the defendant's last known address can be utilized, with a minimum posting period of seven days prior to trial. The bill ensures that the summons is developed in plain language for better public understanding and mandates that the Oklahoma Bar Association provide access to the necessary forms. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-1148.16