Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

Oklahoma House Bill HB2437

Introduced
2/6/23  

Caption

Crimes and punishments; providing sentencing option for certain defendants; effective date.

Impact

With the implementation of HB2437, the state of Oklahoma would see a significant shift in the way repeat felony offenses are prosecuted and sentenced. The bill dictates that defendants previously convicted of specific felonies could face longer prison terms, potentially ranging from ten years to life. This could lead to a stricter approach to sentencing, potentially impacting the overall incarceration rates and resources within the correctional system. Advocates of the bill argue that such measures are necessary to ensure public safety and reduce recidivism among repeat offenders.

Summary

House Bill 2437 amends 21 O.S. 2021, Section 51.1, which governs penalties for individuals who have committed felony offenses. The primary focus of the bill is to establish new sentencing options for defendants who have previous felony convictions. The bill specifies increased punishment ranges for repeat offenders, particularly those who commit significant felonies within ten years of completing their prior sentences. This shift aims to address repeat offenses by imposing stricter penalties, which advocates believe could deter future criminal behavior.

Contention

Despite its intended focus on public safety, HB2437 has sparked debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Critics express concern that the increased punishment could lead to overcrowding in prisons and may disproportionately affect marginalized populations. Additionally, there are apprehensions regarding the effectiveness of harsh penalties in preventing crime, with some arguing that rehabilitation should be prioritized over punitive measures. The discussions surrounding the bill highlight the ongoing tension between the goals of justice reform and ensuring public safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK HB2437

Crimes and punishments; providing sentencing option for certain defendants; effective date.

OK SB1418

Crimes and punishments; decriminalizing certain offenses. Effective date.

OK HB3775

Crimes and punishments; assault and battery; making certain acts unlawful; providing penalties; effective date.

OK SB558

Crimes and punishments; modifying minimum sentences. Effective date.

OK SB599

Crimes and punishments; lewd or indecent acts to a child; modifying scope of punishment for certain crimes. Effective date.

OK HB3785

Crimes and punishments; providing penalty for aggravated assault and battery by strangulation; effective date.

OK SB283

Crimes and punishments; requiring certain program participation. Effective date.

OK HB2617

Crimes and punishments; providing an affirmative defense; effective date.

OK HB2617

Crimes and punishments; providing an affirmative defense; effective date.

OK SB856

Child sexual exploitation; modifying certain life without parole sentencing; requiring certain punishments; requiring certain advisement; defining term; modifying certain confinement criteria. Effective date.

Similar Bills

OK HB3992

Sex crimes; creating Knights Law; requiring persons convicted of certain crimes to serve one hundred percent of sentence; codification; effective date.

OK SB594

Child abuse; modifying scope and penalty of certain offenses. Effective date.

OK HB2437

Crimes and punishments; providing sentencing option for certain defendants; effective date.

OK HB3450

Child prostitution; modifying name of certain unlawful act; effective date.

OK SB1646

Classification of crimes; classifying criminal offenses into classifications. Effective date.

OK SB537

Assault and battery; removing certain intent stipulation; expanding certain definition. Effective date.

OK SB537

Assault and battery; removing certain intent stipulation; expanding certain definition. Effective date.

OK SB541

Crimes and punishments; modifying provisions related to assault and battery. Effective date.