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On March 13, 2026, Oklahoma lawmakers unveiled a series of proposed constitutional amendments aimed at addressing long-standing issues within the state's criminal justice system. The proposed amendments come in the wake of widespread calls for reform following years of overcrowded prisons and high rates of incarceration.Among the key proposals is a measure that would amend the state constitution to require a review of sentencing guidelines to ensure fairness and reduce the reliance on incarceration for nonviolent offenses. This amendment would also establish a task force to study and recommend alternatives to prison for low-level offenders, with a focus on rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.Another proposed amendment seeks to address the issue of mandatory minimum sentencing, which has been criticized for contributing to disproportionately long prison sentences for minor offenses. The amendment would give judges more discretion in sentencing and would prioritize treatment and rehabilitation over incarceration for offenders struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues.In addition to these measures, lawmakers also introduced a proposed amendment that would establish a presumption of parole for inmates who have served a certain percentage of their sentence and have demonstrated good behavior while incarcerated. This amendment is aimed at reducing overcrowding in state prisons and providing a pathway for rehabilitation and reintegration into society for nonviolent offenders.The proposed amendments have already garnered support from a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, criminal justice advocates, and community organizations. Supporters argue that these measures are necessary to address the systemic issues within Oklahoma's criminal justice system and to ensure that justice is served in a fair and equitable manner.If approved by the state legislature, the proposed amendments would be placed on the ballot for consideration by Oklahoma voters in the next election cycle. In the meantime, lawmakers are expected to continue working on additional reforms to improve the state's criminal justice system and reduce reliance on mass incarceration.