This bill amends Section 748 of the Oklahoma Statutes to update the definitions and provisions related to human trafficking. Notably, it expands the scope of the law by replacing the previous reference to Sections 748 and 748.2 with a new reference to Sections 748 through 748.3. The bill also clarifies the definition of "coercion" and includes additional details regarding the definitions of "human trafficking," "commercial sex," and "debt bondage." Furthermore, it establishes that engaging in human trafficking is a Class A2 felony, with specific penalties depending on whether the victim is a minor.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals convicted of human trafficking must serve a minimum of 85% of their sentence before being eligible for parole and that the terms of imprisonment are not subject to suspension, deferral, or probation. It also introduces an affirmative defense for defendants who were victims of human trafficking at the time of the alleged offense, while clarifying that a victim's consent or lack of knowledge regarding the victim's age does not constitute a defense against prosecution. The act is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-748