This bill amends Section 510 of Title 19 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which outlines the qualifications for county sheriff. It introduces new provisions allowing veterans who have served as military police to count their service—specifically four or more years—as meeting the experience requirement for the position. Additionally, the bill mandates that these veterans must present a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD Form 214) as verification of their military police experience when filing for the office.
The bill also retains existing qualifications for candidates, including residency, age, education, and prior service as a peace officer. It emphasizes the requirement for newly elected or appointed sheriffs to complete a sheriff's administrative school within twelve months of taking office, with consequences for failure to do so. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.