The bill introduces the Oklahoma Jail Standards Act, which establishes comprehensive guidelines for the inspection and operation of detention and lockup facilities in Oklahoma. It empowers the State Commissioner of Health to create rules that all detention facilities must adhere to, including requirements for written policies on inmate classification, segregation, emergency medical care, and incident reporting. The legislation emphasizes the treatment of juveniles, mandates separate housing for inmates of different genders, and outlines the responsibilities of facility administrators to ensure compliance with these standards. Significant changes include the removal of outdated language and the introduction of new definitions and standards, as well as provisions for waivers for counties facing hardships in meeting the standards.

Additionally, the bill mandates that all funds for constructing prison facilities and municipal jails must be appropriated by the Legislature, and it requires legislative authorization for contracts with private contractors. It also ensures that county commissioners provide adequate food and medical care for convicts working on public roads. The bill allows inspectors from the State Department of Health to access jail facilities for inspections, with results reported to relevant authorities. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval, thereby enhancing the safety, health, and rights of inmates while ensuring that detention facilities operate under regulated standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 74-192