This bill amends the Oklahoma Criminal Discovery Code, specifically 22 O.S. 2021, Section 2002, to enhance the disclosure requirements related to informants and discovery timelines prior to trial. Notably, the time frame for the state to disclose information regarding jailhouse informants has been increased from ten days to sixty days before trial. Additionally, the bill mandates that the state must provide comprehensive details about the informant's criminal history, any deals made for their testimony, and other relevant information that could affect the informant's credibility. Furthermore, the bill introduces gender-neutral language throughout the text, ensuring inclusivity in legal terminology.

In terms of discovery processes, the bill stipulates that all discovery issues must be resolved at least sixty days prior to trial, a significant extension from the previous ten-day requirement. It also outlines the obligations of both the state and the defense in disclosing witness information and evidence, while establishing a central record for tracking cases involving jailhouse informants. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely and thorough disclosure to ensure fair trial rights, and it includes provisions for the redaction of sensitive information to protect the identities of informants and ongoing investigations. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 22-2002