Oklahoma Senate Bill SB277

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Firearms; modifying term; removing certain qualifiers; clarifying language; declaring certain individuals as individually licensed and verified as it relates to the federal Gun-Free School Zones Act. Effective date.

Impact

The effects of SB277 on state law are significant, as it redefines the scope of firearm possession on school properties. It allows individuals to possess firearms under specific circumstances, such as in their locked vehicles during drop-off and pick-up times for students, or while participating in educational programs that the school has approved. The bill effectively expands the rights granted to individuals under the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act and aligns them with the federal Gun-Free School Zones Act by specifying that individuals who lawfully own firearms are considered authorized within the provisions of this background.

Summary

Senate Bill 277 amends Section 1280.1 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes concerning the possession of firearms on school property. The bill seeks to clarify definitions and conditions under which firearms may be present in schools by modifying existing terminology and removing certain qualifiers. Notably, it provides explicit definitions of 'school property' and 'private school', allowing for specific exceptions where firearms can be legally carried onto school grounds.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB277 has highlighted concerns regarding public safety on school campuses. While advocates argue that the bill provides necessary rights for self-defense and aligns with constitutional rights, opponents worry that increasing the presence of firearms in schools may lead to higher risks for students and staff. Some education and safety groups have raised alarms about potential incidents that could arise from confusing or misinterpreted regulations, and they argue for maintaining stricter boundaries on firearm possession in educational environments.