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OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Governor Kevin Stitt signed HB 2818 into law on May 15, 2025, officially enacting a sweeping update to Oklahoma’s self-defense and firearms statutes. Authored by Rep. Jay Steagall, the measure passed both chambers with broad support — 73-16 in the House and 39-7 in the Senate.
The new law clarifies that pointing a firearm is not unlawful when done in lawful self-defense or in defense of one’s home or business. Prior to this bill, citizens who displayed or pointed a firearm — even without firing — risked criminal penalties, including misdemeanor or felony charges.
HB 2818 removes administrative fines and handgun license revocations previously tied to such acts when carried out in a defensive context. The law also formally recognizes the “defensive display” of a firearm, which includes verbal warnings, exposing the weapon, or placing a hand on it, provided there’s a reasonable belief of an immediate threat.
Significantly, the law strengthens Oklahoma’s Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine provisions. It expands the list of protected locations to include places of business and worship and presumes that the use of defensive force is justified during an unlawful and forcible entry or attempted forcible felony. It further provides immunity from criminal prosecution and civil lawsuits for lawful defensive force.
The law still prohibits using force during unlawful activities or as provocation, and it emphasizes that immunity applies only when the use of force is legally justified.
HB 2818 reaffirms Oklahoma’s commitment to the rights of responsible gun owners. By clarifying legal boundaries and protecting defensive actions from prosecution, it provides essential peace of mind to citizens prepared to defend themselves or others in the face of imminent danger.
