Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1611

Introduced
2/7/22  
Refer
2/8/22  

Caption

Sheriffs; allowing counties to designate certain hospitals to clear arrestees to be housed in county jail. Effective date.

Impact

The implementation of SB1611 is expected to have a significant impact on county operations regarding the incarceration of arrestees. By allowing medical professionals to make determinations on the suitability of housing individuals in jail based on health conditions, counties could potentially see a decrease in the number of individuals housed in jails for medical reasons. This may also alleviate the burden on county jails to provide medical care for those deemed unfit for confinement, thus redirecting resources towards more appropriate health care facilities.

Summary

Senate Bill 1611 allows counties in Oklahoma to designate certain hospitals to assess whether arrestees are medically fit to be housed in county jails. The bill stipulates that if a designated hospital determines it is medically inadvisable for an arrestee to be housed in jail, the county is not obliged to accept that individual into custody. This law is aimed at addressing the health needs of individuals who might be too ill to be incarcerated, thereby reducing the responsibility of jails in managing health-related issues among arrestees.

Contention

While the bill generally seems beneficial, its passage could stir debate on the balance of authority between health institutions and law enforcement. There may be concerns regarding the potential for abuse of discretion by hospitals or disagreements on what constitutes 'medically inadvisable.' Law enforcement and public health advocates may engage in discussions around the implications for public safety and the responsibility of hospitals regarding the decision-making process for arrestees. Thus, the bill could lead to discussions regarding the adequacy of health assessments and the potential for unintended consequences in criminal justice processing.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB3880

Counties and county officers; authorizing counties to designate hospitals for certain purposes; codification; effective date.

OK SB689

Counties; allowing board of county commissioners to create certain ordinances. Effective date.

OK SB689

Counties; allowing board of county commissioners to create certain ordinances. Effective date.

OK SB1668

County sheriffs; allowing county sheriff to contract with private security to guard prisoners temporarily housed outside jail for medical treatment. Effective date.

OK SB976

County officers; allowing for certain counties to employ a county manager. Effective date.

OK SB736

County boards of health; allowing certain agreements between counties; allowing certain combination of resources. Effective date.

OK SB863

County sheriffs; allowing certain program creation. Effective date.

OK SB436

County purchasing; allowing counties to enter into certain agreements for leasing or lease-purchasing certain materials and equipment. Effective date.

OK SB436

County purchasing; allowing counties to enter into certain agreements for leasing or lease-purchasing certain materials and equipment. Effective date.

OK SB828

Counties and county officers; allowing certain employees to receive salary in excess of county officer; pay structure. Effective date.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.