Bill No. 128 amends several sections of the Oklahoma Statutes related to forcible entry and detainer, specifically addressing the issuance and service of summons in eviction cases. Key changes include extending the time period for defendants to appear in court from a maximum of ten days to fifteen days after the summons is issued, while also providing exceptions for certain types of actions that require a shorter notice period. The bill also increases the required advance notice for service of summons from three days to seven days, and it updates the language to be gender-neutral throughout the relevant sections.

Additionally, the bill stipulates 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 specific time frames established for these actions. The language of the summons is required to be in plain and understandable terms, and the Oklahoma Bar Association is tasked with developing this form. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-1148.16
Floor (Senate): 12-1148.16
Engrossed: 12-1148.16