Bill No. 541, introduced by Senators Gollihare and Burns and Representative Miller, amends various sections of Oklahoma's criminal law to enhance the prosecution and treatment of violent crimes, particularly those related to domestic violence. The bill modifies statutory language, changing references from "defined" to "provided for," which clarifies the legal framework for these offenses. It updates terminology, replacing "child pornography" with "sexual abuse material," and introduces new offenses related to aggravated assault and battery, especially in domestic violence cases. The bill also enhances penalties for domestic abuse, particularly against intimate partners or household members, and establishes mandatory counseling and treatment requirements for offenders, ensuring they serve a significant portion of their sentences before becoming eligible for parole.

Additionally, the bill mandates that individuals convicted of domestic abuse attend a treatment program certified by the Attorney General and receive counseling as part of any suspended or deferred sentence or probation. It ensures that victims of domestic violence, stalking, or sexual assault are not charged fees related to the prosecution of these offenses. The bill expands the definitions of violent crimes and includes specific provisions for domestic abuse against pregnant women. It also stipulates that a guilty plea or finding of guilt for certain offenses will be considered a conviction for ten years after completing any probationary term, unless the individual has subsequent convictions for misdemeanors involving moral turpitude or felonies. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-13.1, 21-644, 57-571
Floor (Senate): 21-13.1, 21-644, 57-571
Engrossed: 21-13.1, 21-644, 57-571