House Bill No. 1594, introduced by George, amends Section 644 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to assault and battery laws. The bill clarifies the scope of unlawful acts related to domestic abuse, specifically addressing offenses against intimate partners and household members. It establishes various penalties for different types of domestic abuse, including enhanced penalties for offenses committed against pregnant women and those resulting in great bodily injury. The bill also introduces new definitions and classifications for domestic assault and battery, particularly when a weapon is involved, and outlines the requirements for counseling and treatment for offenders.
Key insertions in the bill include the addition of specific terms such as "kind of firearm," "air gun," and "conductive energy weapon," which broaden the definition of deadly weapons in the context of domestic violence. The bill also emphasizes the importance of treatment programs for offenders, mandating participation in certified domestic abuse counseling and establishing conditions for probation and sentencing. Additionally, it ensures that victims of domestic violence will not incur any fees related to the prosecution of their cases. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 21-644
House Committee Substitute: 21-644
Floor (House): 21-644
Engrossed: 21-644
Sub Committee OR Policy Committee Recommendations (House) Policy Committee Recommendation: 21-644