Bill > SB673

This bill modifies Oklahoma's asset forfeiture laws to require that forfeiture proceedings can only occur after a related criminal conviction. Specifically, the bill amends two sections of Oklahoma statutes (21 O.S. Section 1738 and 63 O.S. Section 2-506) to mandate that forfeiture actions may only be brought following the conviction of a person for an offense to which forfeiture applies. The key change is in the language surrounding when forfeiture can occur, replacing previous provisions that allowed seizure and potential forfeiture with a new requirement that a criminal conviction must first be obtained. This means law enforcement can no longer seize property without first securing a criminal conviction related to the alleged criminal activity. The bill aims to provide additional protections for property owners by ensuring that asset forfeiture cannot proceed without first establishing criminal guilt through a legal conviction. The changes will take effect on November 1, 2025, giving state agencies and courts time to adapt to the new requirements.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb673&Session=2600