Court reporters; eliminating charge for certain transcripts. Effective date.

SB 230 eliminates fees for transcripts required in criminal appeals when defendants cannot afford them. The bill amends Oklahoma law to require district courts to cover transcript costs from court funds instead of charging indigent defendants, directly affecting low-income individuals facing criminal appeals. Key provisions clarify that judges must order these transcripts at no cost to defendants who demonstrate financial hardship, ensuring access to appeal records without payment barriers. The change applies specifically to criminal cases and takes effect November 1, 2025.