Senate passes Bullard bill to educate Oklahomans on signs of deed theft

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Senate on Thursday unanimously passed critical legislation from Sen. David Bullard, R-Durant, to educate real estate brokers and homebuyers about the threats of deed theft.

Senate Bill 877 requires the Oklahoma Real Estate Commission to establish standards for real estate brokers to complete continuing education courses to recognize the signs of deed theft. The bill also mandates that brokers give homebuyers information on the signs and risks of deed theft as part of the closing process.

“Deed theft is a serious problem that has been ignored and overlooked in Oklahoma for too long,” Bullard said. "This legislation is a crucial step toward raising awareness and taking action to protect property owners from the devastating consequences of this crime. By taking proactive steps to educate brokers and homebuyers on this threat, we can make significant strides in preventing deed theft before it happens. This bill is a chance to protect Oklahoma’s elderly and most vulnerable residents, who are often the target of scammers and fraudsters trying to steal property out from under its rightful owners.”

Bullard said that SB 877 complements legislation he's coauthored to make deed theft a felony and impose criminal penalties on those who intentionally forge or alter deed paperwork or other property documents.

SB 877 is now eligible to be heard in the House, where it is coauthored by Rep. Cody Maynard, R-Durant.

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For more information, contact: Sen. David Bullard at (405) 521-5586 or David.Bullard@oksenate.gov