This bill amends Oklahoma's laws regarding aggravated assault and battery by introducing new definitions and penalties specifically related to medical contexts. It expands the definition of aggravated assault to include actions taken by medical professionals that result in physical injury or emotional distress without obtaining informed consent from the patient. The bill outlines specific acts that would qualify as aggravated medical assault, such as administering harmful treatments, failing to provide adequate information about procedures, or proceeding with treatment after a patient has declined consent.
Additionally, the bill reclassifies aggravated assault and battery as a Class B5 felony, with penalties including imprisonment in the custody of the Department of Corrections for up to five years or a fine of up to $500. Notably, violations of the new medical assault provisions carry a more severe penalty of up to four years of imprisonment and fines up to $5,000. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 21-647