OK SB898

Amends the Oklahoma Religious Freedom Act to expand the definition of "exercise of religion" to include the ability to act or refuse to act based on sincerely held religious beliefs, whether or not compulsory or central to a larger religious system

Broadens the definition of "substantially burden" to include directly or indirectly constraining, inhibiting, curtailing, or denying religious exercise, as well as compelling actions contrary to a person's religious beliefs

Specifies that substantial burdens include withholding benefits, assessing criminal/civil/administrative penalties, or excluding individuals from governmental programs or facilities

Creates a private right of action allowing individuals to assert religious freedom violations as a claim or defense in judicial proceedings, regardless of whether the government is a party

Authorizes remedies including injunctive relief, declaratory relief, compensatory damages, and attorney fees and costs, with an effective date of November 1, 2016