Torts; prohibiting the assertion of qualified immunity as a defense to liability. Effective date.

SB 2035 removes qualified immunity as a legal defense for peace officers (state or local law enforcement) who violate constitutional rights under the Bill of Rights or Oklahoma Constitution. It directly affects injured parties filing lawsuits and peace officers facing liability claims. Key provisions require officers to be personally liable for such violations, prohibit statutory immunities from applying, mandate attorney fee awards to winning plaintiffs, and require employers to cover most costs - except when officers acted in bad faith or were convicted of crimes. The bill takes effect November 1, 2026.