FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 1, 2023
“We're taking a bold stand against a system that has for too long been a debtors' jail.”
TULSA, OK – Rep. Monroe Nichols (D-Tulsa), candidate for Tulsa Mayor, released a statement today celebrating a piece of criminal justice reform legislation becoming law.
House Bill 2041, authored by Nichols and Sen. Greg Treat, allows officers to issue verbal warnings to individuals with existing misdemeanor warrants, informing them of the warrant and advising them to contact the court clerk for resolution. Officers must document each verbal warning on a department-issued warning ticket to ensure community accountability.
“House Bill 2041 represents a transformative step towards reimagining our criminal justice system. Speaking with families who have had loved ones entrapped in the criminal justice system, I've come to understand that real change happens when we prioritize communities over punitive measures. By shifting our attention from those who owe fines to addressing more serious offenses, we're not only easing the strain on our law enforcement but also making significant strides in reducing our jail population. By ensuring our law enforcement can redirect their energy towards genuine threats and not be burdened by those simply unable to pay fines, we're taking a bold stand against a system that has for too long been a debtors' jail.
“This isn't just a win for Oklahoma; it's a testament to what can be achieved when we come together, Democrats and Republicans alike, to do what's right. This spirit of cooperation and problem solving is something I plan to take with me to the mayor's office, making certain that every voice is heard as we work toward making Tulsa the safest big city in the country.”
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About State Rep. Monroe Nichols:
Monroe Nichols has been a leading voice on education, healthcare, criminal justice reform, and economic growth. A four-term legislator, Nichols is an established leader in the Oklahoma House of Representatives and serves as the current chair of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus. Nichols brings a wealth of experience from government, business, higher-education, and non-profit sectors. Nichols has been recognized with numerous awards for his public service. As mayor, Monroe will work tirelessly to end homelessness, invest in education, expand our economy, and ensure Tulsa is the safest big city in America.
Contact: Dana Walton, Campaign Manager
(307) 258-1825
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