Civil procedure; cause of action for intentional distribution of false news; Attorney General to file action on behalf of the citizens of Oklahoma; effective date.

HB 3123 would hold news media outlets - including national, local, social media, and information platforms - liable for intentionally distributing false news meant to mislead or promote political views. The Attorney General could file lawsuits on behalf of Oklahoma citizens, seeking actual damages (including profits from false reports) and punitive damages of at least $500 per report. Exceptions cover satire, parody, and content protected under federal Section 230 (which shields platforms for user-generated content). The bill, introduced in 2026, would take effect November 1, 2026.