The Oklahoma Senate approved House Bill 3782 on Tuesday, a measure that makes it more difficult for violent criminals to get released on bail.

The measure, authored by Rep. John George, R-Newalla, proposes a rebuttable presumption that no bond release conditions would ensure the safety of the community or any person if the state provides clear and convincing evidence that the person was arrested for a violent offense and released on bond and while out on bond the person was arrested for another violent crime. 

"This legislation permits judges to detain an individual who is already out on bond for a violent crime but gets arrested for another violent crime without bail," George said. "As a result, we will ensure the safety of our citizens by preventing dangerous criminals from repeatedly victimizing our communities."

Sen. Todd Gollihare, R-Kellyville, carried the measure in the Senate.

“Oklahoma is a law and order state where public safety is paramount,” Gollihare said. “House Bill 3782 keeps our communities safe and secure by revoking bail privileges for violent criminals who commit additional heinous crimes while out on bond.”

HB3782 passed the Senate unanimously and now moves to the Governor's desk for consideration.