Sen. Hamilton highlights key policy initiatives for upcoming legislative session

Sen. Warren Hamilton Highlights Key Policy Initiatives for Upcoming Legislative Session

OKLAHOMA CITY (Jan. 28th) – Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, recently announced five bills that are key to his legislative agenda for the 2025 session. Hamilton is the author of Senate Bills 19, 448, 504, 599, and 869, each designed to protect Oklahomans and their way of life.

“Among these pieces of legislation are efforts to safeguard Oklahoma’s children from any individuals or institutions that may try to harm them,” Hamilton said. “This includes ensuring that our school libraries are free from inappropriate or harmful materials, protecting minors from entering into premature or potentially dangerous marriages, and implementing stronger penalties for those convicted of child sexual abuse. Each of these measures is a critical step in upholding the well-being and safety of our youth.”

Senate Bill 19 would prohibit inappropriate materials in schools and require Oklahoma public school districts and charter schools to submit a list of all available library materials to the State Department of Education annually by October 1. The bill would also require schools to implement policies for reviewing the suitability and age-appropriateness of library materials and outline the process for addressing concerns about available materials.

Senate Bill 504 would prohibit marriage under the age of 18.        

Under Senate Bill 599, individuals convicted of child sexual abuse crimes shall be sentenced to the death penalty or life without parole. Current law provides for this punishment only after subsequent offenses. 

“Also atop my legislative priorities this session is Senate Bill 448, which will ensure Oklahomans have priority access to hunting or other activities in our state’s wildlife management areas, while still allowing our fellow outdoorsmen from neighboring states to continue to enjoy Oklahoma’s rich hunting lands.”

Senate Bill 448 would require nonresident hunters to receive written permission from the Department of Wildlife Conservation before hunting in Oklahoma’s Wildlife Management Areas or federal wildlife refuge areas.

“Another measure I’ll be carrying this session, SB 869, aims to combat human trafficking, protect vulnerable individuals, and enhance public safety across our state by increasing the criminal classification of prostitution, with the hope of deterring this illegal activity,” Hamilton added.

Senate Bill 869 raises the crime of prostitution from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Hamilton’s legislation will be eligible for consideration in the 2025 legislative session, which begins Feb. 3.