SB535 Summary

• Prohibits unlicensed persons from acting as bail bondsmen or bail enforcers; violation is a felony punishable by fine up to $5,000.

• Licensed bail enforcers may break into and enter a dwelling during active recovery of a felony defendant without criminal penalty, or a misdemeanor defendant if they have first-hand knowledge the defendant is inside and refusing to surrender after reasonable request.

• Allows persons with five years' legal residence in another state to seek a residency waiver from CLEET to obtain a bail enforcer license in Oklahoma, with CLEET having sole discretion to grant or deny.

• Requires bail enforcers to maintain liability insurance or surety bond of minimum $10,000, keep complete client and apprehension records available to CLEET, and maintain a publicly listed physical address and phone number.

• Declares an emergency effective date for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.