Legislation allowing GPS monitoring for some domestic violence defendants is headed to Governor Kevin Stitt’s desk.
Senate Bill 1325 would allow judges to require ankle monitors for defendants accused of serious domestic violence crimes while they are out on bail. The bill passed both chambers unanimously.
The measure applies to defendants with prior domestic abuse convictions and those accused of violent offenses, including domestic abuse by strangulation or assault with a deadly weapon.
Victims would receive electronic alerts if a defendant comes within a certain distance. Law enforcement would also be notified.
“This is one of the most meaningful pieces of legislation I’ve ever worked on because it will be lifesaving for survivors of domestic violence who have already endured so much,” Oklahoma Senator Bill Coleman said.
Under the bill, defendants generally would pay for the monitoring costs, although exceptions could be made for indigent defendants.
If signed into law, the measure would take effect Nov. 1.
