SB 859 Summary

• Amends Oklahoma law to prohibit persons from knowingly permitting anyone under 21 years old at their residence or property to possess or consume alcoholic beverages, low-point beer, or controlled dangerous substances.

• Establishes graduated penalties: first violation is a misdemeanor with fine up to $500 or up to 1 year jail time; second violation increases to fine up to $2,500 or up to 1 year jail time; third or subsequent violation becomes a felony with fines of $2,500-$5,000 or up to 5 years imprisonment.

• Adds enhanced penalty if violation causes great bodily injury or death: felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and fine of $2,500-$5,000.

• Permits municipalities to prosecute violators under local ordinances in addition to state prosecution for the same conduct.

• Creates rebuttable presumption protecting property owners who take reasonable steps to prevent underage consumption, including age verification, controlling access to substances, and supervising gatherings.

• Effective date: November 1, 2011.