Torts; stating liability of peace officers for injuries related to the deprivation of certain rights; prohibiting the assertion of qualified immunity as a defense to liability. Effective date.

SB 1056 makes Oklahoma peace officers personally liable when they violate constitutional rights protected under Article II of the Oklahoma Constitution (such as rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights). It prohibits the use of "qualified immunity" as a defense in lawsuits and requires officers' employers (like cities or counties) to cover legal costs unless the officer acted recklessly or committed a crime. The bill also mandates that winning plaintiffs in such cases automatically receive reasonable attorney fees and costs. This directly affects peace officers, individuals whose rights were violated, and local governments employing officers.