Oklahoma House Bill HB1679

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21
• Report Pass: 3/1/21
• Engrossed: 3/11/21
• Refer: 3/17/21
• Report Pass: 3/29/21
• Refer: 3/29/21
• Report Pass: 3/31/21
• Enrolled: 4/14/21
• Passed: 4/20/21

Caption

Inmates; creating the Sarah Stitt Act; directing the Department of Corrections to assist inmates with obtaining state-issued identification cards and employment-related documents; effective date.

Impact

The passage of HB 1679 is expected to have positive implications for Oklahoma laws surrounding inmate re-entry and rehabilitation. By providing inmates with the tools they need to secure employment—such as vocational records, Social Security cards, and birth certificates—the bill aims to improve post-release outcomes for those affected by incarceration. This not only benefits the individuals involved but may also enrich community dynamics by reducing recidivism through enhanced opportunities for employment and stability post-incarceration.

Summary

House Bill 1679, also known as the Sarah Stitt Act, focuses on aiding the transition of inmates upon their release from the Department of Corrections by facilitating access to state-issued identification cards and employment-related documents. The bill mandates that the Department of Corrections assist inmates in obtaining necessary documentation, essentially preparing them for reintegration into society. This includes identifying inmates who lack a current state-issued ID and helping them acquire a REAL ID Noncompliant Identification Card if desired. The effort aims to address one of the significant barriers many former inmates face: the lack of proper identification which impedes their chances of finding employment and reintegration into the community.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1679 seems to be largely supportive, with many stakeholders recognizing the importance of providing inmates with necessary identification for successful reintegration. Supporters argue that this initiative acknowledges the challenges faced by former inmates and promotes a system that fosters rehabilitation instead of continued punishment. However, there may be concerns among some voters or community members about the implications of state resources being allocated to assist inmates, especially from those who believe in stricter penalties and less leniency towards individuals with criminal records.

Contention

While the support for HB 1679 is evident, notable points of contention could arise regarding the implementation and funding of the proposed initiatives. Critics may question the effectiveness of such measures in truly aiding re-entry, alongside debates about the fairness of prioritizing resources for inmates over other state needs. Furthermore, the bill's requirement for the Department of Corrections to coordinate with the Department of Public Safety on handling identification documents can raise concerns about the administrative feasibility and potential bureaucratic hurdles that could arise.