This bill amends Section 1148.6 of Title 12 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to civil procedure regarding defendants asserting title to real property. The amendments clarify that defendants must file a verified answer or affidavit detailing their defense of title or boundary disputes before the trial. Additionally, if the cause of action involves a breach of lease, the plaintiff may opt for a forcible entry and detainer action instead of an ejectment action. Notably, the requirement for a defendant to answer before the trial is removed.
A significant addition to the law is the provision that the court will order a defendant asserting title to real property to provide a bond for the safekeeping of the property. This bond, payable to the court clerk, cannot exceed the current market value of the property and is conditioned on compliance with future court orders or judgments regarding the dispute. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2026.