Oklahoma's Senate Bill 381, introduced on February 27, 2025, aims to expand firearm rights for individuals with prior felony convictions, specifically those who have had their rights restored. The bill allows individuals who have successfully regained their right to possess non-semi-automatic firearms to apply for a handgun permit under the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act. However, this restoration of rights comes with strict conditions; individuals who are later convicted of any misdemeanor or felony will lose these rights again.

Notably, the bill outlines specific nonviolent felony offenses that disqualify individuals from regaining their firearm rights, including child endangerment, various forms of domestic abuse, incest, indecent exposure, and sexual assault. This provision aims to balance the restoration of rights with public safety concerns.

The introduction of SB 381 has sparked significant debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill promotes rehabilitation and reintegration into society for those who have served their time, while opponents express concerns about the potential risks of allowing individuals with certain past convictions to access firearms.

The implications of this legislation are substantial, as it touches on broader issues of criminal justice reform, public safety, and Second Amendment rights. Experts suggest that if passed, SB 381 could set a precedent for similar legislation in other states, potentially reshaping the landscape of firearm ownership rights for individuals with felony records.

As the bill moves through the legislative process, its future remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions expected to address the balance between individual rights and community safety. The outcome of SB 381 could have lasting effects on both the legal framework surrounding firearm possession in Oklahoma and the lives of those seeking to reclaim their rights after incarceration.