On Nov. 1, more than 300 new laws officially took effect in Oklahoma, including one affirming our Second Amendment rights. Despite legal attempts to block Oklahoma’s constitutional carry legislation, it is now the law and on the books. This past Friday, a rally was held on the south plaza of the Capitol to celebrate this new law upholding the rights of Oklahomans to keep and bear arms.

As of Nov. 1, Oklahomans 21 and older can carry a firearm without a permit. Additionally, veterans, active duty and reserve military 18 and over can carry without a permit.

It’s important to point out there are protections built into the bill. Felons and people convicted of domestic violence and those adjudicated as having a mental illness are still prohibited from carrying a firearm.

Everyone needs to be aware that there are still some places you cannot take your firearms. They are prohibited in liquor stores and bars. They’re also prohibited in government offices and buildings, courthouses, prisons, gambling establishments, professional sports arenas, as well as public schools. Firearms are also prohibited for colleges, universities and career-techs but each may determine specific exceptions for their own campuses. They’re also prohibited in private schools unless otherwise permitted. Private property owners, businesses and places of worship can determine whether to allow firearms on their properties.

It is important to point out that not every state has constitutional carry, and not all have reciprocal agreements with Oklahoma, so it’s wise to have a self-defense act license when traveling out of state with your firearms.

This new law has been a long time coming and one I have supported since before I even began serving in the Oklahoma State Legislature. I was very proud to help secure its passage and pleased to see this proposal become a reality for our citizens.

If you have any additional questions about Oklahoma’s new constitutional carry law, please do not hesitate to contact me – my office will assist in getting you additional information.

This is your State Capitol, and I look forward to welcoming you to the Senate. You can reach me by calling 405-521-5626 or emailing [email protected].