Bill > SB1381

This bill creates the Pretrial Procedures Modernization Act of 2026, which significantly reforms criminal pretrial procedures in Oklahoma by establishing more comprehensive and individualized approaches to pretrial release. The bill requires defendants to be brought before a magistrate within 48 hours of arrest (72 hours on weekends/holidays) and mandates an individualized pretrial release hearing where the court must make specific findings about the defendant's likelihood of court appearance and potential threat to the community. During this hearing, the court must consider 13 detailed factors including offense severity, safety risks, criminal history, employment status, and community ties. The legislation requires magistrates to inform defendants of court dates, potential consequences for failing to appear, and their right to legal representation, and allows defendants to challenge evidence and present their own testimony. The bill also authorizes courts to establish pre-appearance bail schedules, requires written findings for bail decisions, and ensures that release conditions are the least restrictive necessary to prevent flight risk or community harm. Additionally, the bill updates language to be gender-neutral, provides for potential electronic monitoring, and allows for supervision fees, with the ultimate goal of creating a more fair and individualized approach to pretrial release decisions.

Budget and Finance, Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1381&Session=2600