HB 1363 Summary

• Makes it unlawful for bail enforcers to forcibly break into or enter a dwelling house to recover a defendant by forcibly breaking doors/windows, breaking in while armed or with assistance, or using false keys or lock-picking.

• Violations constitute burglary in the first degree with penalties under Section 1436 of Title 21, Oklahoma Statutes.

• Creates exceptions for licensed bail enforcers attempting to recover felony defendants when: the bail enforcer has first-hand or eyes-on knowledge the defendant entered or is present in the dwelling and refuses reasonable surrender requests; or has knowledge confirming beyond reasonable doubt the defendant is in the dwelling and refuses surrender.

• Defines "first-hand knowledge" as direct eye-witness testimony, actual visual contact with confirmed identification by someone who knows the defendant or resides there, or other factual evidence directly provided to the bail enforcer.

• Preserves residents' rights to defend against forced entry and use firearms as authorized by law; provides district attorney discretion in prosecution decisions; shields residents from liability for injuries to forced entry perpetrators; and allows owners/occupants to seek civil damages for property damage from bail enforcer forced entries.

• Becomes effective November 1, 2025.