Criminal justice diversion programs
Several bills in Oklahoma's 2026 legislative session aim to expand criminal justice diversion, including expanding drug court eligibility beyond felony charges and allowing ODMHSAS to fund indigent defense. These proposals reflect ongoing debate about whether Oklahoma should invest more in diversion and treatment alternatives versus traditional incarceration.
Should Oklahoma expand eligibility for criminal justice diversion programs like drug courts?
Tap a point along the line below to show where you stand.
How important is this to you?
✓ You told us where you stand
Sources
Sen. Dave Rader (R-Tulsa) — https://www.healthymindspolicy.org/policy/2026-oklahoma-legislative-session-mental-health-bills-to-watch
SB 1216 by Sen. Dave Rader (R-Tulsa) would expand eligibility for drug court programs, removing the requirement of a felony charge.
Sen. Gollihare — https://www.healthymindspolicy.org/policy/2026-oklahoma-legislative-session-mental-health-bills-to-watch
Sen. Gollihare's SB 1647 would allow ODMHSAS to allocate up to $1 million to the Oklahoma Indigent Defense System.
Positions on this issue · liberal → conservative
- Broadly expand diversion programs to all nonviolent offenses and invest heavily in treatment over incarceration.
- Expand drug court and diversion eligibility beyond felonies, as proposed in SB 1216, and increase treatment funding.
- Expand diversion programs modestly while ensuring public safety is not compromised and outcomes are measured.
- Keep diversion programs limited to serious felony offenders; misdemeanor cases should proceed through standard courts.
- Oppose expanding diversion programs; prioritize incarceration as the primary response to drug and criminal offenses.