Bill No. 731 amends the Oklahoma Evidence Code to expand the hearsay exceptions in legal proceedings involving vulnerable individuals. Specifically, it modifies Section 2803.1 to include statements made by vulnerable adults, in addition to children and incapacitated persons, regarding acts of physical abuse, neglect, or sexual contact. The bill outlines that such statements are admissible in juvenile deprived proceedings and various criminal proceedings, provided they meet certain criteria, including the availability of the individual to testify or the statement being deemed nontestimonial.

The amendments also clarify the definitions and conditions under which these statements can be used in court, ensuring that the legal framework protects vulnerable adults alongside children and incapacitated persons. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, following its passage in the Senate on March 11, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-2803.1
Floor (Senate): 12-2803.1
Engrossed: 12-2803.1