SB 265 Summary

• Amends 21 O.S. 2001, Section 850 to clarify protected classes in malicious intimidation or harassment statutes by adding "gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity" to existing protections covering race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, and disability.

• Changes prosecution time limit to 60 days after commission of the offense, replacing the previous standard statute of limitations.

• Restructures penalties: first offense is 1-5 years imprisonment and/or up to $5,000 fine; second offense is 5-10 years imprisonment and/or up to $10,000 fine; third or subsequent offense is 20 years to life imprisonment and/or up to $20,000 fine.

• Adds subsection H clarifying the law does not prohibit constitutionally protected speech, religious exercise, or peaceful demonstration, and prohibits prosecution based solely on individual beliefs or group membership.

• Effective date: November 1, 2011.