Oklahoma Rep. Files Bill To Create State Question On Death Penalty

An Oklahoma lawmaker filed a bill that would create a state question on whether the death penalty should exist in Oklahoma.

Representative Mauree Turner of Oklahoma City introduced the bill and said, if passed, it would place the death penalty on the ballot as a state question for Oklahoma voters to decide on.

The bill comes after Oklahoma resumed executions back in October after they were on hold for more than six years.

The last time the death penalty question was on the ballot was in 2016.

Wagoner County District Attorney, Jack Thorp, says the majority of Oklahomans supported the death penalty then and believes they will again if it’s put on the ballot.

"I firmly believe that Oklahomans support the death penalty in appropriate cases when administered through the court system and where due process is guaranteed for the specific defendant," said Thorp.

Representative Turner said there's been a significant increase in people calling for the state to end the death penalty.

Turner said this bill would give voters the chance to express that on a ballot.

"Not only folks in House District 88, but folks from across Oklahoma, folks from across the nation, and folks from across the world were looking at Oklahoma's justice system and how we weaponize capital punishment or the death penalty here," said Representative Turner.

DA Thorp said the end of the death penalty could take away options for Oklahoma prosecutors seeking justice.

"I think the ability to have the possibility of the death penalty, especially for the families and friends of the victim, it is very important that that option remains on the table for the state's prosecutors," said DA Thorp.

Representative Turner said ending the death penalty could begin new conversations about the criminal justice system in Oklahoma.

"I don't know anybody who wants to participate in a government that says we are not going to provide our community with resources, but we will provide you with the cages and pine boxes that you need," said Representative Turner.

The bill is waiting to be heard in a committee.