Oklahoma House Bill HB2990

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/6/24

Caption

Domestic abuse; expanding scope of certain domestic abuse penalties; effective date.

Impact

The implications of HB 2990 extend beyond criminal penalties. It mandates that judges require offenders to undergo counseling and treatment programs certified by the Attorney General. This requirement is intended to reduce recidivism rates by addressing the underlying issues prompting domestic violence. The inclusion of provisions that prevent victims from incurring costs related to their prosecutions further underscores the bill's focus on ensuring access to justice for victims of domestic abuse and the state's commitment to supporting them during legal proceedings.

Summary

House Bill 2990 aims to expand the penalties associated with domestic abuse under Oklahoma law. By amending existing statutes, the bill categorizes certain acts of domestic violence and delineates the severity of punishments based on the nature of the offence and the history of the offender. Offenses such as assault and battery against a family member or an intimate partner can incur sentences of up to two years in prison or hefty fines, with increasing penalties for repeat offenders. The bill also targets significantly violent actions, such as assault with a deadly weapon, providing extended sentences, which can include life imprisonment depending on the circumstances.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2990 include concerns related to the effectiveness of punitive measures versus rehabilitative approaches. Critics may argue that focusing on increased jail time does not necessarily ensure long-term changes in behavior among offenders, while supporters assert that the enhanced penalties serve as necessary deterrents to domestic violence. Additionally, the requirement for counseling may provoke discussions on the adequacy and availability of such programs across the state, highlighting potential gaps in support systems for both victims and perpetrators.