Legislation to significantly alter Oklahoma’s criminal code was finally approved by the state’s legislative body on Wednesday.
Rep. Mike Osburn (R-Edmond) introduced House Bill 1792, which would reclassify all felonies in accordance with the recommendations made after three years of study by the Oklahoma Criminal Justice Reclassification Council. In 2018, the Legislature established the Council with the mission of reviewing the criminal code and proposing a felony categorization system that would enhance public safety without causing a rise in the jail population.
The primary purpose of HB1792 is to classify the more than 2,000 felonies committed in Oklahoma into fourteen distinct groups according to their seriousness. Instead than using data drawn from actual time spent, it uses data derived from judicial sentencing orders to align sentence ranges with current practices.
The measure establishes minimum sentencing standards and standard sentencing ranges for Class C and D felonies, with sentencing becoming increasingly harsh for further offenses.
According to Osburn, House Bill 1792 is the way ahead for a reformed, transparent, and uniform system of criminal classification that prioritizes the safety of Oklahomans.
Law enforcement, prosecutors, legislators, and others involved in the fight for criminal justice reform have spent over two years working together, discussing, and drafting this bill. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who took charge and dove headfirst into the intricacies over the past few years.
Different provisions of HB1792 apply to less serious and more serious past felony convictions. The bill also makes it clear that prisoners will not be freed from prison on ankle monitors until they have fulfilled their minimum sentence and stipulates that jury instructions will contain minimum time served requirements.
Murder, sexual abuse, arson, assault, and first-degree burglary are all serious felonies in the Y, A, and B classes; Osburn stressed that HB1792 does not alter any sentencing ranges for these offenses.
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Furthermore, sentencing guidelines for misdemeanors, fines, and fees remain unchanged, and neither the penalties nor the terms of imprisonment for offenses involving abortion, oil and gas, pipelines, or essential infrastructure, nor for crimes involving theft or abuse of animals are altered.
According to okcfox, Following the House’s 67-26 vote, HB1792 will be considered by the Senate in light of the conference committee’s findings. With HB1792’s potential implementation on January 1, 2026, lawmakers would have plenty of time to review data and make necessary revisions before the new system goes live. Only felonies committed after the enactment date would be subject to these sentencing adjustments; they would not apply to offenses committed before that date.
Natalie Clydesdale is a journalist at oklahomansdecide.org, where she covers crucial local and state news with a focus on accuracy and depth. Her extensive experience in investigative reporting ensures readers receive clear and reliable information. Follow her latest updates on Instagram.
