Oklahoma’s “open carry” gun law goes into effect Thursday, and allows the estimated 141,000 state residents who have a concealed-weapon permit to carry their weapons openly.
According to the law, Oklahomans with a handgun license issued by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) will on Thursday be able to carry concealed handguns and openly displayed hand guns. Previously, license holders were only able to carry concealed weapons.
Oklahoma officials have estimated a 40% increase in the number of state residents applying for some form of a weapons permit.
“Oklahoma will soon become one of 44 states that allow some kind of ‘open carry,’” Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin said in a statement issued Wednesday (Oct. 31). “I believe the law is consistent with the spirit of the Second Amendment and that similar laws in other states have shown that open carry can be implemented safely and responsibly. However, it is important that citizens, especially those that plan to openly carry firearms, understand and follow the law. Click here to read the full story from our partners at TheCityWire.com.