The bill amends the Oklahoma Criminal Discovery Code, specifically 22 O.S. 2021, Section 2002, to enhance the disclosure requirements for both the state and the defense in criminal cases. Key changes include the state's obligation to disclose a broader range of evidence, such as law enforcement reports, body-worn camera footage, and expert reports, in a format that is usable. The time frame for the state to disclose evidence has been modified to thirty days prior to trial, and the definition of "informant" has been updated to include those providing testimony under a deal with the state. Additionally, the bill mandates that the defense disclose witness information and expert testimony details, while also ensuring that the language used in the statute is gender-neutral.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a continuing duty for both parties to disclose any additional evidence discovered before or during the trial. It establishes specific timelines for law enforcement to provide records to the prosecuting agency and for the prosecuting agency to make those records available to the defense. The bill also allows for protective orders to restrict disclosures and clarifies the costs associated with copying and duplicating evidence. The effective date for these changes is set for November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-2002