Crimes and punishments; making certain acts unlawful; codification; effective date.
The bill revises Section 1312 of Title 21 in the Oklahoma Statutes, expanding upon the nature of punishable actions in the context of riots. It delineates penalties for participants based on their involvement, such as carrying firearms during a riot or intentionally obstructing traffic. This makes it clear that more serious offenses related to directing or encouraging violent actions will incur steeper penalties, including up to twenty years in prison for those found guilty of directing violence.
House Bill 2464 aims to amend the existing criminal penalties associated with participating in riots in the state of Oklahoma. The bill not only updates the language of the current statutes but also makes specific actions related to riots expressly unlawful. Key underpinnings of the legislation involve increased penalties for different levels of riot participation, with varying terms of imprisonment depending on the severity of one's actions during such events.
A notable aspect of HB2464 introduces a new legal provision that provides immunity from civil or criminal liability for individuals who attempt to flee from an unlawful riot in a motor vehicle. This exemption is granted if the individual reasonably believed themselves or passengers in the vehicle were in danger. This provision may attract debate, as it intertwines public safety concerns with potential legal protections for behavior during chaotic situations. Opponents may argue that this could encourage reckless behavior during riots.
If passed, the provisions of HB2464 would take effect on November 1, 2021, potentially reshaping the legal landscape of how riots and associated actions are treated under Oklahoma law.