A bill modifying the age of consent in Oklahoma has passed the House of Representatives.
House Bill 1003 by Rep. Jim Olsen, R-Roland, increases the age of consent to 18 years old. The current age of consent is 16 years old.
"Raising the age of consent to 18 ensures that our state laws reflect the maturity and well-being of our youth, as well as upholds the morals and personal beliefs of the majority of Oklahomans," Olsen said. "I believe that every step we take to strengthen these protections is a step toward building a safer future for our children. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to see this bill through to its final passage."
As the bill passed with an emergency clause, it would take effect immediately upon being signed by the governor.
HB1003 passed the House 91-0 on Wednesday and is now available for consideration in the Senate, where it is authored by Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee.