Bill > SB606

This bill modifies Oklahoma state law regarding public defenders by increasing the population threshold for counties required to establish an office of public defender from 300,000 to 400,000 residents, based on the latest Federal Decennial Census. The changes affect three key sections of existing law, updating requirements for public defender offices in larger counties. Specifically, the bill mandates that counties with over 400,000 residents must create a public defender's office to protect defendants' rights in criminal actions, with county commissioners responsible for providing office supplies, equipment, and space. The bill also maintains provisions for training public defender attorneys, including curriculum on defense seminars and evidence-based practices for handling defendants with behavioral health or substance abuse needs. Additionally, the changes clarify that public defenders and their staff are considered state employees for liability purposes and outline procedures for handling appellate cases, such as managing conflicts of interest between defendants. The new provisions will take effect on November 1, 2025, giving counties time to prepare for the updated requirements.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb606&Session=2600