Oklahoma Senate Bill SB664

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Campus carry of firearms; modifying allowable carry; removing requirement for certain written consent; allowing certain concealed carry; prohibiting certain denial; allowing certain prohibition. Effective date.

Impact

The impact of SB664 on state laws plays a significant role in redefining the authority of educational institutions regarding firearm policies. With this bill, local educational boards are limited in their ability to implement their own restrictions on firearms, reinforcing a state-level standard that permits armed individuals on campus. Moreover, the bill provides comparative immunity to colleges and universities for incidents involving firearms, potentially reducing their liability related to accidental discharges or acts of self-defense on campus.

Summary

Senate Bill 664 (SB664) addresses the regulation of firearms on public college, university, and technology center school properties in Oklahoma. This legislation modifies existing laws by allowing individuals with a valid handgun license to carry concealed handguns on these educational properties, provided they are in compliance with certain stipulations outlined in the bill. The bill removes the previous requirement for educational institutions to give written consent for individuals to carry firearms, effectively limiting the control these institutions would have in prohibiting firearms on their premises.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB664 include concerns about safety and the responsibilities of educational institutions in managing potential firearm-related incidents. Proponents of the bill argue that allowing responsible handgun owners to carry on campus could enhance personal safety and act as a deterrent against potential threats. However, opponents contend that increased access to firearms in traditionally sensitive environments like campuses could lead to heightened risks and fears, complicating the efforts of schools to foster a safe learning environment.