OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Warren Hamilton, R-McCurtain, issued the following statement after House Bill 1003 became law this week.
The measure implements additional protections for Oklahoma youth by raising the age of consent from 16 to 18.
“Raising the age of consent to 18 is a crucial step in closing dangerous loopholes that have allowed predators to exploit vulnerable and innocent youth for far too long,” Hamilton said. “By raising the age of consent, we are strengthening protections for minors, while ensuring predators are held accountable. I appreciate my colleagues for their overwhelming support of this critical legislation and everyone who had a hand in getting it across the finish line this session.”
The new law is a key part of Hamilton’s broader legislative efforts aimed at protecting children and increasing accountability for those who target minors.