House Bill No. 1460, introduced by West (Tammy), proposes significant amendments to Oklahoma's laws regarding fees and fines associated with criminal offenses. The bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on individuals in the criminal justice system by eliminating various fees, including those for laboratory analysis, supervision, and certain traffic offenses. Key deletions from current law include the removal of mandatory fees for offenders upon conviction or bond forfeiture, as well as the repeal of provisions requiring monthly payments to the district attorney during probation. The bill also clarifies that while offenders may still be assessed monetary obligations, these will not cease with the termination of active supervision, ensuring accountability until all financial obligations are met.

In addition to the fee structure changes, the bill expands sentencing options for various offenses, emphasizing rehabilitation and victim restitution. It includes provisions for treatment programs, ignition interlock devices, and electronic monitoring for certain offenders. The bill mandates alcohol and drug assessments for individuals convicted of specific driving offenses and outlines procedures for DNA testing for felons. Furthermore, it proposes amendments to the deferred judgment process, removing the requirement for a monthly supervision fee and allowing for payments based on the defendant's ability to pay. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and aims to streamline legal processes while ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to rehabilitation programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-991a
House Committee Substitute: 22-991a, 28-153, 20-1313.6, 20-6., 20-2021, 20-991d, 20-7.
Floor (House): 22-991a, 28-153, 20-1313.6, 20-6., 20-2021, 20-991d, 20-7.
Engrossed: 22-991a, 28-153
Sub Committee OR Policy Committee Recommendations (House) Sub Committee Recommendation: 22-991a, 28-153, 20-1313.6, 20-7., 20-2021, 20-991d, 20-8.