As the Legislature enters its final month of session work, Governor Kevin Stitt is working to get criminal justice reforms passed by lawmakers.
“With only a few weeks remaining in the Legislative session, I am keenly focused on ensuring significant movement is made on criminal justice reform,” said Stitt. “Oklahomans and community leaders agree that we need to reform the funding structure for our District Attorneys and Courts, we must invest in diversion and treatment programs, and we must release non-violent offenders from prison who were sentenced on drug charges under old laws. We can accomplish these reforms this year in a way that continues to keep our streets safe and ensures Oklahomans who are facing addiction and health challenges can take hold of opportunities for a second chance. Much more progress needs to be made, and I am committed to keeping criminal justice a top priority in my administration.”
Stitt’s proposals include reform of fines and fees funding of District Attorneys and the Oklahoma Court System, treatment for those with mental health and addiction issues diverting them away from incarceration, giving non-violent offenders access to certain occupational licenses, making State Question 780 retroactive, parole more inmates and reform parole supervision, and sentencing and diversion reform.
Several of the proposals are in current legislation and under consideration. Some would need to be added to certain measures. Other reforms could be achieved next session, as well.
The reforms the governor proposes have the support of many business and community leaders and advocates.
