Bill No. 871, introduced by Senators Reinhardt and George, amends existing laws related to crimes and punishments in Oklahoma. The bill modifies the language in 21 O.S. 2021, Section 13.1, to update statutory references for various serious offenses, including first and second degree murder, manslaughter, and robbery, by changing the term "defined" to "provided for." Additionally, it introduces a new criminal offense related to causing an accident while eluding an officer that results in great bodily injury. The bill also amends Section 540A, which pertains to eluding peace officers, by updating penalty provisions and clarifying the consequences for violations, including the classification of certain offenses as felonies.

The amendments specify that individuals convicted of the listed serious offenses must serve at least 85% of their sentence before being eligible for parole and are not eligible for sentence-reducing credits. The penalties for eluding a peace officer have been adjusted, with misdemeanor violations punishable by up to one year in jail and fines, while endangering others during such violations can lead to felony charges with imprisonment ranging from one to seven years. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Committee Substitute: 21-13.1
Floor (House): 21-13.1
Floor (Senate): 21-13.1
Engrossed: 21-13.1