Residents Weigh in on Oklahoma’s Open Carry Law

It is now legal to carry your gun out in the open in Oklahoma. The new law took effect Thursday, but comes with restrictions.

“It’d be the old west again,” said Sheron Green, who opposes the open carry law.

Opponents and supporters weigh in on the controversial new gun law. Concealed weapons can now be carried in the open outside your clothes.

“Yes, I feel safer,” said Kenny Smith, an open carry supporter. “I feel like you know not to know to do that guy wrong.”

The law comes with limits. People must have a valid permit to carry.

“I wouldn’t like the idea of people going in churches and grocery stores and everywhere with guns on,” said Green.

Carriers with a permit still cannot bring guns to schools, courtrooms, sporting events, jails, and state and federal buildings.

Opponents worry about safety.

“Usually your own gun is what kills ya cause if somebody’s gonna kill ya they’re gonna get a gun,” said Green.

Supporters argue the opposite. Some say the new law will keep people safer.

“That should stop the altercation from the get go you know what I mean,” said Smith. “That should deter people and I believe that’s a right.”

Business owners can ban guns from their establishments. The law requires carriers to comply.

“I don’t take it as like a criminal,” said Smith. “I take it as you know what if some criminals want to come in here and make a deal in the store or something. Hey we got some back up.”

Oklahoma Governor Marry Falin issued a statement supporting the new open carry law.