Bill No. 631 amends Oklahoma's criminal law regarding the minimum percentage of a sentence that must be served before a convicted individual is eligible for parole. The bill modifies the statutory references for various serious offenses, including first and second degree murder, manslaughter, robbery, and sexual crimes, by changing the language from "defined" to "provided for" in the relevant sections of the law. Additionally, it introduces a new criminal offense related to discharging a firearm at or into a dwelling or building used for public or business purposes, which also falls under the requirement to serve at least 85% of the sentence before parole eligibility.

The bill further specifies that individuals convicted of these serious offenses will not be eligible for earned credits or any other credits that could reduce their sentence below the 85% threshold. This legislation aims to ensure that those convicted of particularly heinous crimes serve a significant portion of their sentences, thereby enhancing public safety and accountability within the criminal justice system. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-13.1
Floor (Senate): 21-13.1
Engrossed: 21-13.1