Case Explained:This article breaks down the legal background, charges, and implications of Case Explained: 12 new laws set to take effect in Oklahoma on Jan. 1 – Legal Perspective
OKLAHOMA CITY (KSWO) — Twelve new laws will take effect across Oklahoma on Jan. 1, 2026.
The legislation addresses criminal sentencing reform, adoption tax credits, notary requirements and other regulatory changes.
Criminal justice reforms
Three related bills modernize Oklahoma’s criminal sentencing structure.
House Bill 1792, known as the Oklahoma Sentencing Modernization Act of 2024, creates a classification system for felonies and provides updated punishments to standardize sentencing across the state.
House Bill 2104 provides updated felony classifications for crimes under the new Sentencing Modernization Act.
House Bill 2105 adjusts felony classifications for specific crimes as part of the modernization effort.
Legal and administrative changes
House Bill 2117 updates the process for seeking dispute resolution outside of the courtroom.
House Bill 2258 addresses authentication requirements for state legal material uploaded electronically.
Senate Bill 1028 adds new requirements for notaries public, including mandatory national criminal history record checks. The law also increases fees and bonds for notary commission renewals.
Tax and financial updates
House Bill 2610 increases the nonrecurring adoption tax credit for adoptive families, allowing them to claim higher credits for certain adoption-related costs.
Senate Bill 1112 updates lodging tax calculations by excluding discounted or complimentary lodging from gross receipts.
Emergency services and technology
Senate Bill 1067 adjusts reimbursement rates and criteria for emergency medical services and establishes a statewide database for providers.
Senate Bill 713 requires newly established wind energy facilities to apply for a specified technology system by a set deadline and includes provisions for cost recovery.
Data protection and commerce
Senate Bill 626 expands notification requirements under the Security Breach Notification Act to include additional types of compromised personal information. The law also requires notification of the Oklahoma attorney general for larger breaches.
Senate Bill 987 establishes the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Board and sets qualification requirements for members.
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