Bill No. 595, known as the Oklahoma Jail Standards Act, aims to modernize and establish comprehensive standards for the operation and inspection of detention and lockup facilities in Oklahoma. The bill empowers the State Commissioner of Health to create rules that all detention facilities must follow, while also clarifying inspection requirements. It replaces outdated standards with new definitions and guidelines, including the development of written policies for inmate classification, emergency medical care, and supervision. The legislation mandates annual inspections by the State Department of Health to ensure compliance with these new standards and introduces exceptions for holding facilities for individuals arrested for crimes, provided they are not held for more than twelve hours.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for the management and operation of detention facilities, including adequate living conditions, safety measures, and staff training. It emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive procedures and proper classification of inmates, ensuring that those with significant medical or psychiatric issues are housed separately. The bill also amends existing laws to align with the Oklahoma Jail Standards Act, replacing outdated references and establishing protocols for inmate transfers when capacity is exceeded. It includes penalties for non-compliance and allows for immediate implementation upon passage. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance the safety, health, and rights of inmates while ensuring that detention facilities adhere to updated standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 74-192
Floor (Senate): 74-192
Engrossed: 74-192