Senate Bill No. 513 amends the Oklahoma Riot Control and Prevention Act by modifying the powers of the Governor during a declared state of emergency. The bill specifies that the Governor can prohibit certain activities, such as public gatherings and the sale of specific commodities, to maintain public order. Notably, it introduces new provisions that prevent the Governor and other state officials from prohibiting or suspending the sale, ownership, possession, transportation, carrying, transfer, and storage of firearms, ammunition, and related accessories, as well as any activities in places of worship that are otherwise legal under state law.
Additionally, the bill allows individuals who believe their rights have been violated under these new provisions to seek legal relief against officials of municipalities, counties, political subdivisions, or other state entities. It also provides a mechanism for individuals to recover firearms or ammunition that have been seized in violation of the new regulations. The bill is set to take effect on November 1, 2025.