Oklahoma Senate Bill SB564

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Online harassment; establishing elements of certain offense; allowing injunctive relief and award of damages. Effective date.

Impact

The passage of SB564 would significantly modify state laws by codifying protections against online harassment. It outlines that individuals engaging in specified aggressive and abusive communication via electronic means can be held responsible for damages. This includes comments made anonymously or in conspiracy with others to harass a victim. The bill's emphasis on identifying and penalizing such behaviors aims to foster a safer online environment.

Summary

Senate Bill 564 focuses on online harassment, defining specific behaviors as unlawful when committed through telecommunication and electronic communication channels. The bill establishes elements of the offense of online harassment and introduces potential remedies for victims, including the ability to seek injunctive relief to prevent further harm. This framework is designed to address the growing concern of harassment using digital communication methods, which have become increasingly prevalent in today's technology-driven society.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB564 may involve various points of contention, especially regarding the balance between free speech and the need for legal protections against harassment. Some may argue that the definitions used in the bill could potentially infringe on individuals' rights to express themselves or chill legitimate communication. Others might advocate that the bill is a necessary step that provides much-needed recourse for victims suffering from online abuse, thereby contributing to their protection and rights.