SB 319 Summary

• Creates the Task Force on Reentry for Ex-Offenders, consisting of 8 members including the Director of the Oklahoma Department of Corrections (chair), 3 members appointed by House Speaker, 3 members appointed by State Senate President Pro Tempore, and 2 members appointed by the Governor.

• Task force members serve at the pleasure of their appointing authorities with appointments due by July 1, 2013, and the first meeting required by September 1, 2013; the task force continues until December 31, 2014.

• Authorizes task force to analyze existing state reentry programs, examine reentry laws and programs in other states, define how Oklahoma can improve ex-offender reintegration into society, and develop legislative proposals for a cohesive reentry process.

• Requires the Department of Corrections to provide staff support and allows the task force to utilize expertise from legislative staffs and corrections professionals; all state departments must cooperate by providing requested information and records.

• Task force shall publish findings and recommendations by July 1, 2014, with no compensation for members but reimbursement for necessary travel expenses; declares an emergency for immediate implementation.