Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1098

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/8/22

Caption

Firearms; disallowing regulation for certain firearm suppressor. Effective date.

Impact

The bill's passage would have significant implications for law enforcement and local municipalities. It expressly prohibits any city or local government from enforcing federal laws regarding firearm suppressors that impose restrictions not found in state law. Moreover, if a municipality enacts such an enforcing rule, it risks forfeiting state grant funds, thereby diminishing local governance power over public safety measures related to firearms and affecting community decision-making autonomy.

Summary

Senate Bill 1098 seeks to limit federal regulations on firearm suppressors manufactured and sold within Oklahoma. Specifically, the bill stipulates that such suppressors, if produced entirely from materials sourced within the state and without foreign components, shall not be subject to federal law or regulation. This move is intended to assert state authority over local firearm manufacturing, effectively placing locally produced suppressors outside the jurisdiction of federal oversight on interstate commerce. Furthermore, the bill mandates that any suppressors produced in the state must visibly state 'Made in Oklahoma.'

Contention

This legislation has sparked debate regarding the balance of power between state and federal regulations. Proponents argue that SB1098 strengthens states' rights and local industries by reducing federal overreach on local businesses. Conversely, critics raise concerns about potential public safety risks, arguing that reducing oversight may lead to increased misuse of firearms suppressors. The contention also revolves around the implications for local law enforcement, which may find themselves restricted in enforcing federal laws that pertain to firearms.