Oklahoma Expands Castle Doctrine to Include Property Defense

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt signed House Bill 2818 into law, expanding the Castle Doctrine to legally allow individuals to point or display a firearm in defense of their home, private property, or business. The law clarifies that a "defensive display" includes verbally informing someone of a firearm, visibly showing the weapon in a protective manner, or placing a hand on it while contained, aiming to provide clear legal boundaries for property defense. The bill, authored by Rep. Jay Steagall with input from the Oklahoma Second Amendment Association, seeks to address ambiguities in prior laws and has been in development for years. While supporters emphasize the constitutional right to bear arms and enhanced property protection, opponents, including some Democratic lawmakers, express concern that threats to property differ from threats to a person and worry about potential misuse and public safety risks. The law took effect immediately upon signing and follows Oklahoma's 2019 constitutional carry legislation, which had previously expanded gun rights but was also associated with increased gun deaths in the state. The debate continues over the balance between property rights and responsible gun ownership, especially regarding the law's interpretation and enforcement.