Bill > HB2719

This bill amends Oklahoma's existing laws regarding prostitution and related offenses, specifically modifying Section 1031 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes. The bill clarifies and updates penalties for various prostitution-related crimes, maintaining the existing structure of graduated punishments based on the number of prior convictions. For standard prostitution offenses, first-time offenders can face up to one year in county jail and fines up to $2,500, with increasing fines and potential imprisonment for subsequent convictions. The bill introduces a specific provision that if a person knowingly engages in prostitution while infected with HIV, they can be charged with a felony punishable by up to five years in prison. Child prostitution remains a serious felony with potential imprisonment of up to ten years and escalating fines. The bill also maintains enhanced penalties for prostitution offenses committed within 1,000 feet of a school or church, which can result in felony charges. The most significant change appears to be a technical amendment in subsection E, which references a modification to how certain violations under paragraph 4 of Section 1029 will be punished. The act is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, providing ample time for legal systems and enforcement agencies to prepare for the implementation of these updated provisions.

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2719&Session=2600