Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt (R) signed HB 2818 into law on Thursday, granting Oklahomans the right to use the “defensive display” of a firearm to deter threats and protect their property. The measure, which took effect immediately, clarifies what constitutes a lawful defensive act involving a firearm short of using deadly force.
According to KFOR, the legislation expands residents’ self-defense rights by defining “defensive display” as specific non-lethal actions meant to deter unlawful aggression. These include verbally stating the presence of a firearm (e.g., “I’ve got a gun”), purposefully exposing the firearm in a manner that signals a deterrent against unlawful force, or placing one’s hand on a firearm while it remains holstered or stored in a case or bag.
The Oklahoman noted that lawmakers aimed to protect citizens from legal jeopardy when using these limited displays as a preventative measure rather than resorting to the use of force. The law intends to support lawful gun owners who wish to de-escalate situations without firing a shot.
Governor Stitt has consistently supported Second Amendment rights throughout his tenure. In 2019, he signed constitutional carry legislation, making Oklahoma the 15th state in the nation to allow law-abiding residents to carry firearms without a permit.
At that time, Stitt emphasized the importance of empowering citizens to defend themselves. “I think the best defense for a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun,” he said, speaking to Tulsa World.
HB 2818 continues that approach, reinforcing Oklahoma’s commitment to gun rights and personal protection. The law ensures that citizens who choose to assert their right to defend property through non-lethal means are legally supported and protected from prosecution.
