By: Journalist Christopher Ungaro (TU)
After passing through the House on Thursday amid fierce debate, OKWU-501 is about to enter deliberation in the Senate.
The controversial bill seeks to lower the minimum age necessary to obtain a license to conceal carry from 21 to 18, and opinions around the bill are already forming while others still remain skeptical.
For the most part, sentiment seems to be leaning toward opposition. Certain members of the Senate’s leadership have even indicated a belief the bill will not pass.
Sen. Trevor Friesen (OSU), the head freshmen liaison, said, he does not like the bill.
“I am definitely generally much more for gun control as a whole as opposed to that bill is against… I do not think it will pass,” Sen. Friesen said. “I think it will be close though.”
Multiple senators were initially opposed to the bill, however, most seem to be waiting to hear more about the bill before making a final decision. For the most part, opposition seems rooted in concerns about gun safety.
Sen. Blaine Bowen (OBU) said, “I am not entirely sure if that is a good or a bad idea… probably no, considering… the difference between an 18-year-old and a 21-year-old is actually quite significant.”
Conversely, among other senators, tentative support for OKWU-501 can already be found, with most voicing support based on the 2nd Amendment rights of 18-year-olds.
Sen. Juliana Donaldson (OU) said she will likely vote yes but is waiting to hear from the author.
“I also am concerned about making sure that does not find a place into schools… overall I think the 2nd Amendment is a constitutional right and 18-year-olds, as legal adults in America, should be allowed to exercise it,” Sen. Donaldson said.
Sen. Friesen, despite his opposition, did still feel that “it is going to be an interesting conversation,” as did many others.
Which perspective will prevail will be revealed through voting in just a few hours. Keep watch to see which side wins regarding this contentious issue.