Okla. governor faces decision on gun carry without a permit

OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin is not saying whether she will sign legislation that would allow adults to carry handguns without a permit in spite of concerns expressed by the deputy director of one of the state’s top law enforcement agencies Thursday that it could erode public safety.

“The law really removes many of the protections that we’ve had,” said Rick Adams, deputy director of the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. “Public safety is obviously the biggest concern. It’s a dangerous situation for the public. It’s a dangerous situation for police officers.”

The bill, similar to socalled “constitutional carry” legislation adopted in a dozen other states, authorizes people 21 and older and military personnel who are at least 18 to legally carry a handgun, openly or concealed, without a state-issued license or permit.

The state currently requires a license to carry a handgun openly or concealed although firearms may be carried openly without a permit in certain circumstances, including while hunting or target practicing.

A background check would be required before a person could purchase a firearm and handguns would remain prohibited in places where they are currently banned, including elementary schools, colleges, universities and government buildings. The bill also excludes anyone prohibited by state or federal law from owning a weapon as well as those convicted of assault and battery, domestic abuse, violating a protective order or drug crimes.

The legislation by state Sen. Nathan Dahm, a Republican candidate for Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District, received final passage late Wednesday when the Senate approved the bill 33-9. It was previously approved by the state House.

The measure goes to Fallin, a Republican who has expressed support for Second Amendment rights but who has vetoed some gun rights legislation.