This bill amends Oklahoma's laws concerning human trafficking and domestic violence by introducing new definitions and clarifications, including terms like coercion, commercial sex, and debt bondage. It mandates that expert testimony regarding the effects of human trafficking on victims is admissible in court and grants the Attorney General the authority to enter into agreements for victim services while ensuring confidentiality. The bill also updates penalties for human trafficking offenses, increasing fines and mandating restitution for victims. Additionally, it expands the responsibilities of the Attorney General's Victims Services Unit to include support for human trafficking victims and establishes a 24-hour statewide communication service for immediate assistance.

Furthermore, the bill revises the certification and oversight requirements for programs related to domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. It exempts licensed professionals in private practice from certification requirements, although this does not apply to any domestic violence or sexual assault programs they operate. The bill requires facilities serving victims to comply with standards set by the Attorney General and allows the Attorney General to collect fees for certification costs. It also emphasizes the confidentiality of information collected for oversight purposes, ensuring that identifying details are protected and used solely for statistical reporting and analysis.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-748