Firearms; modifying scope of certain prohibited act; providing an exception; prohibiting the carry of firearms into certain places; deleting construing provisions. Effective date.
Impact
By revising statutes regarding where firearms can be lawfully carried, SB920 enhances the rights of individuals wishing to carry firearms legally in areas previously restricted. This change affects both private and public property law, allowing businesses and event organizers more authority to regulate firearm carry policies on their premises. Specifically, it enables event holders at large public events to permit open carry of firearms, a contentious issue in public safety discussions, which has the potential to escalate conflicts regarding gun rights and public safety in community events.
Summary
Senate Bill 920 amends existing Oklahoma firearms laws, specifically focusing on the carry of firearms in public spaces and during events like the Oklahoma State Fair and Tulsa State Fair. The bill modifies the definition of prohibited acts related to firearms, adding exceptions for carrying concealed or unconcealed handguns in specific locations during certain events. This represents a significant shift in the legal landscape regarding firearm possession on public trust properties and during state-sponsored events, allowing for greater leeway in carrying firearms at such venues if permitted by event organizers.
Contention
The measure has sparked debate among lawmakers and the public regarding the implications for public safety and local governance. Supporters argue that the legislation enhances Second Amendment rights and personal safety, while opponents express concerns about increased risks of firearm-related incidents in public settings, particularly around vulnerable populations such as children at state fairs or sports events. The discussions center not only around the overall increase in firearm visibility in public spaces but also the broader impact on community and local government authority to manage public safety effectively.
Carry Over
Firearms; modifying scope of certain prohibited act; providing an exception; prohibiting the carry of firearms into certain places; deleting construing provisions. Effective date.
Firearms; modifying scope of certain prohibited act; providing an exception; prohibiting the carry of firearms into certain places; deleting construing provisions. Effective date.
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.
Campus carry of firearms; modifying allowable carry; removing requirement for certain written consent; allowing certain concealed carry; prohibiting certain denial. Effective date.
Firearms; modifying certain allowable carry; restoring certain rights to carry; prohibiting certain carry for certain persons; removing certain revocation. Effective date.
Firearms; creating the Municipal Carry Act; modifying scope of lawful carry for certain individuals; authorizing certain carry by judges, elected official and designated employees under certain circumstances; effective date.
Firearms; authorizing municipalities to allow for the carry of firearms by officials or employees for personal protection; exemption from liability; prohibited locations. Effective date.