Domestic Violence Bill Passes Oklahoma Senate

Domestic Violence Bill Passes Oklahoma Senate

The Oklahoma Senate has overwhelmingly approved legislation aimed at strengthening penalties in domestic violence cases involving children.

Senate Bill 1238, authored by Sen. Bill Coleman, passed Monday on a 42 to 3 vote.

The proposal would make domestic abuse in the presence of a child a felony on the first offense. Under current law, the first offense is treated as a misdemeanor.

Lawmakers Focus on Impact on Children

Coleman said the legislation targets the lasting impact domestic violence can have on children.

“When domestic violence happens in front of a child, that child becomes a victim too,” Coleman said.

Coleman noted research shows children who grow up witnessing abuse are far more likely to experience violence later in life.

Higher Penalties Proposed

Under Senate Bill 1238, a first conviction of domestic abuse in the presence of a child could carry one to five years in prison and fines of up to $7,000.

Currently, the penalty ranges from six months to one year in jail.

Coleman said the bill is designed to help address Oklahoma’s high rates of domestic violence and break the cycle of abuse.

Legislation Moves to the House

The measure now heads to the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

There, Rep. John Pfeiffer is serving as the bill’s primary author.

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