Oklahoma Senate Bill SB826

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Firearms; considering certain actions as infringing on the right to keep and bear arms. Effective date.

Impact

One of the significant provisions of SB826 mandates that law enforcement officers must not obey or enforce any orders that violate the Second Amendment as defined in the bill. Additionally, it prohibits state, county, or municipal governments from retaliating against law enforcement officers or citizens who refuse to comply with such orders. This reflects a growing trend in some states to embolden law enforcement's position against federal actions regarding gun control while asserting local autonomy over the enforcement of federal laws.

Summary

Senate Bill 826 aims to safeguard the rights of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution and Article II, Section 26 of the Constitution of Oklahoma. The bill posits that any federal, state, county, or municipal act that orders the buyback, confiscation, or surrender of firearms or ammunition constitutes an infringement on these rights. It encourages the state and its political subdivisions to actively protect these rights against any perceived encroachments.

Contention

There are notable contentions surrounding SB826, primarily focused on the balance between individual rights and public safety. Supporters argue that the bill fortifies the rights of citizens and individuals in law enforcement to resist what they view as unjust government overreach. Opponents express concerns that such legislation could impede effective law enforcement and public safety protocols, especially in scenarios involving gun violence or the regulation of firearms. Furthermore, the bill has implications for funding as it restricts budget cuts to law enforcement agencies based on their compliance with these provisions, fostering a potential conflict between state and local priorities.