In Depth: Bill allowing Oklahomans to point weapons while defending property becomes law | News [Video]

OKLAHOMA — A bill that expands defensive display of firearms to include protecting property was signed into law.

Under state law, Oklahomans can display their firearms as a form of self-defense. House Bill 2818, authored by Rep. Jay Steagall (R-Yukon), expands the law to include protection of private property, whether owned or leased, and businesses.

The measure clarifies what is considered defensive display:

• Verbally informing another person of possession of a gun.
• Exposing a gun in a way any “reasonable person” would understand it was meant for protection against unlawful force.
• Placing a hand on a gun while it is in contained in a pocket, purse, holster or other form of transportation.

On the Oklahoma House Floor in March, some lawmakers questioned Rep. Stegall regarding the bill’s impact on the safety of citizens, expressing it may encourage weapons to be used in situations they would not be considered before.

Rep. Michelle McCane (D-Tulsa) shared her concern around interpretations of the bill with FOX23.

“As a representative who …