Oklahoma moves closer to dropping training and licensing for handguns

Senate Bill 1212, converted to "constitutional carry" legislation by the floor amendment of Rep. Jeff Coody, R-Grandfiled, made it through the Oklahoma House of Representatives on a 59-28 vote after a lengthy discussion.

If approved by the Senate and signed by the governor, the bill would allow individuals to carry firearms as right granted by the U.S. Constitution's Second Amendment. The right would not apply to areas where guns are currently banned by law or private property.

Proponents said the law is similar to ones already in force in more than a dozen states. It is opposed by a number of businesses, business organizations and professional associations.

Opposition to the bill centered around safety and the lack of training requirements.

"There’s not mandated training, but a law-abiding citizen who avails himself of a weapon would be extremely foolish not to seek training," said Coody. "My position has always been that responsible citizens will get more training that required under existing law."

"I appreciate that and don’t disagree with that, but don’t see anything in this bill that limits it to responsible people," replied Rep. Pat Ownbey, R-Ardmore.

Coody said it would be "illogical" to require training for "law-abiding" citizens when such training is not mandated for those with "evil intent."

Coody said the Second Amendment is more important than access to education or the right to vote because it makes those possible.

The bill is expected to cost the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation more than $4 million a year in lost fees associated with gun licensing.