This bill amends Section 1277 of Title 21 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which addresses the unlawful carry of firearms. It introduces an exception allowing municipalities to authorize elected officials and designated employees to carry concealed handguns while performing their official duties, provided they possess a valid handgun license. The bill specifies that firearms cannot be carried into courtrooms or other areas designated as firearm-prohibited locations by municipal ordinance or resolution. Additionally, it clarifies that there is no requirement for elected officials or designated employees to carry firearms as a condition of their employment.
The bill also modifies existing language regarding the unlawful carry of firearms in certain public spaces, removing the federal governmental authority from the list of entities where carrying firearms is prohibited. It maintains restrictions on carrying firearms in courthouses, schools, and other specified locations while allowing for concealed carry in certain public areas, such as parks and recreational areas, under specific conditions. The effective date for this legislation is set for November 1, 2025.