Bill > SB1224

This bill updates Oklahoma's pardon and parole procedures by authorizing electronic notification to victims and victim representatives. Specifically, the bill allows the Pardon and Parole Board to send notifications via email in addition to traditional first-class mail, giving victims more flexible options for receiving information about parole and commutation hearings. The bill clarifies language around notification requirements, including that victims must provide their current mailing or email address to receive updates, and that victim-witness coordinators can help victims update their contact information. The legislation maintains existing provisions that require the Board to notify victims at least 20 days before an inmate's hearing, provide hearing details, allow victim testimony, and inform victims of Board decisions. The bill also standardizes some terminology, such as changing capitalization of certain words like "chair" and updating phrases like "all persons" to "any person". The changes aim to improve communication with crime victims while maintaining the Board's existing processes for reviewing parole and commutation applications. The bill will become effective on November 1, 2026.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1224&Session=2600