The bill amends the Oklahoma Evidence Code, specifically Section 2803.1, to expand the hearsay exceptions in juvenile deprived proceedings and criminal trials. It introduces provisions that allow statements made by vulnerable adults, in addition to children and incapacitated persons, to be admissible in court when they describe acts of physical abuse, neglect, or other specified offenses. The language of the bill includes multiple insertions that specifically mention "vulnerable adult" alongside existing categories, ensuring that their statements regarding abuse or neglect are recognized in legal proceedings.

The bill also outlines the conditions under which these statements can be admitted, including scenarios where the vulnerable adult or child may not be able to testify in person. It emphasizes the importance of these statements in cases involving serious offenses, thereby enhancing protections for vulnerable populations within the legal system. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-2803.1
Floor (House): 12-2803.1
Floor (Senate): 12-2803.1
Engrossed: 12-2803.1
Enrolled (final version): 12-2803.1