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 as evidence in cases involving physical abuse, domestic abuse, neglect, and other specified offenses. The language of the bill includes the insertion of "or vulnerable adult" in multiple instances to ensure that these individuals are recognized within the legal framework when discussing admissible statements related to abuse or neglect.

Furthermore, the bill outlines that statements made by vulnerable adults will be admissible in trials if they testify or if they are unavailable under certain conditions. The effective date for this amendment is set for November 1, 2025. This legislative change aims to enhance the protection of vulnerable populations by ensuring that their statements can be considered in legal proceedings, thereby potentially improving outcomes in cases of abuse and neglect.

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