Open carrying of guns may soon become law in Oklahoma

Oklahomans soon may be able to openly carry guns in public after the House voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to allow the practice.

The measure has already passed the Senate and now heads to Democratic Gov. Brad Henry, who has not indicated whether he will sign it.

The requirements for obtaining a gun license, including a background check and completion of a firearms training course, remain unchanged. An estimated 97,000 Oklahoma residents hold concealed-carry permits.

The bill’s author in the House, Rep. Rex Duncan, R-Sand Springs, said allowing people to openly carry firearms will deter violence.

“A criminal is far less likely to attack once he sees a citizen is armed,” said Duncan, a former prosecutor.-[source]