By: Journalist Olivia Kopang (OSU)
On Friday morning, Rep. Molder (OKWU) presented bill OKWU-501 titled, “Every Adult Can Conceal Carry.” This is an act relating to gun legislation and, essentially, intends to lower the age requirement for carrying firearms to 18.
Within the realm of Oklahoma’s Intercollegiate Legislature landscape, the presentation of OKWU-501 has sparked considerable debate and reflection. This bill, which lowers the minimum age for carrying firearms from 21 to 18, drew attention from representatives on the floor when introduced.
One can observe the multifaceted discussions and divergent viewpoints surrounding OKWU-501, shedding light on the implications it could have for the state and its residents.
Under the stipulations of the bill, “the carrying of a firearm, concealed or unconcealed, loaded or unloaded, by a person who is eighteen (18) years of age or older” is legal.
When a call for debate was carried out, many representatives had questions about punishments for citizens lying about their age and what type of proof is required to purchase an automatic weapon at 18.
OKWU-501 states, “in order for an individual to meet the standards for conceal carrying a firearm, that individual must have previously graduated high school, or obtained a GED, in that they no longer attend any type of private, public or home high school.”
The issue of gun rights or control is enough of a polarizing issue on the national level, and bringing this issue to the people, whom it arguably affects the most, can be a bold move. However, representatives were eager to ask questions and state their opinions on the topic.
Rep. Gabriel Hensley (TU) was impassioned about the subject, and her thoughts on gun control were clear.
“I am not a fan of the proliferation of deadly weapons,” Rep. Hensley (TU) said. “Nothing against the author, nothing against any of that, but I just will not vote for things that make it easier for people to gain access to deadly weapons.”
Although this bill failed in the House, it created a contentious debate and lively discussion.