Firearms instructor John Zane teaches a concealed carry class at the United States Shooting Academy in Tulsa back in March. JAMES GIBBARD/Tulsa World File
Correction:A Wednesday Tulsa World story incorrectly described where the open carrying of weapons would be prohibited under a measure signed by Gov. Mary Fallin. Liquor stores, like other businesses, would have the option to allow or prohibit firearms on their premises. This story has been corrected.
OKLAHOMA CITY - Gov. Mary Fallin on Tuesday signed a measure allowing for guns to be carried openly.
Senate Bill 1733, by Sen. Anthony Sykes, R-Moore, would allow those with a concealed-carry permit to openly carry weapons.
The measure takes effect Nov. 1.
"As a strong supporter of the Second Amendment and a gun owner myself, I'm happy to sign this bill into law and grant law-abiding citizens the ability to openly carry firearms," Fallin said. "Senate Bill 1733 sends a strong message that Oklahoma values the rights of its citizens to defend themselves, their family and their property. It does so in a responsible way, by requiring those citizens who choose to open carry to undergo both firearms training and a background check."
To receive a license under the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act, a person must take a firearms safety and training course and submit to a background check by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. Those convicted of felonies and certain misdemeanors may not receive a handgun license.
Businesses may continue to ban firearms on their premises. Senate Bill 1733 prohibits carrying firearms on properties owned or leased by the city, state or federal government, at corrections facilities, in schools or college campuses and at sports arenas during sporting events.
Sen. Judy Eason McIntyre, D-Tulsa, and Sen. Jim Wilson, D-Tahlequah, are vocal critics of the measure.
McIntyre said she was not surprised that Fallin signed the measure, adding that the governor made it clear that she supported it.
But she is concerned that police will not know who the good guys are and who the bad guys are when they encounter an issue.
"I am personally terrified," McIntyre said. "I really am."
Wilson said it was unfortunate that Fallin signed the measure, adding that he is not sure that lives would be saved but that lives would be lost.
He said the measure wasn't necessary because the state currently lets people with a license carry a concealed weapon.
"They just want to push their chests out, strut around and intimidate people," Wilson said. "It is just terribly unfortunate."
Barbara Hoberock 405-528-2465
barbara.hoberock@tulsaworld.com
Original Print Headline: Fallin signs open-carry bill
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