Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt Signs Legislation Affecting Peace Officer Commissions and Firearms Carry
On May 13, 2026, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt signed 15 bills into law, including measures addressing the commissioning of peace officers and regulations regarding firearms. The legislative actions, confirmed by the official Oklahoma Governor’s newsroom, also involved the veto of two additional bills. These updates reflect recent changes to state statutes governing public safety and legal procedures within the state of Oklahoma.
How Are Peace Officer Commissions Changing?
Under the newly signed SB 171, the process for commissioning peace officers in Oklahoma has been modified. The legislation amends Section 1, Chapter 11, O.S.L. 2023, to establish a new collaborative process for these commissions.
According to the text of the bill, the Commissioner of Public Safety is now directed to commission peace officers in conjunction with either the President Pro Tempore of the Oklahoma State Senate or the Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives. The law also clarifies the jurisdictional reach of these commissioned officers. This change represents an effort to formalize the oversight and authorization of law enforcement personnel through direct coordination between the executive and legislative branches.
What Does the New Firearms Legislation Entail?
Governor Stitt signed SB 372, which amends existing state law regarding the carry of firearms in specific locations. The legislation modifies 21 O.S. 2021, Section 1277, as previously amended by the 2025 legislature.
The primary focus of this update is a modification to the scope of lawful carry within the state. While the legislation adjusts the legal framework for where firearms may be carried, it maintains the state’s ongoing efforts to refine its carry statutes. This follows a pattern of legislative activity in Oklahoma aimed at clarifying the intersection of public space regulations and the rights of firearm owners.
Other Legislative Actions
In addition to the public safety measures, the Governor signed SB 1679, titled the “Preserving Oklahoma Values Act of 2026.” This act outlines legislative intent regarding court decisions and contracts, declaring certain judicial decisions and contracts void and unenforceable under specific conditions.
Furthermore, the Governor addressed human trafficking through SB 1810. This bill amends 21 O.S. 2021, Section 748, to require the admissibility of certain expert testimony in human trafficking cases. It also updates several sections of Title 74 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which govern the investigative and legal resources available to combat trafficking.
Key Takeaways from the May 2026 Legislation
* Peace Officer Commissions: SB 171 requires the Commissioner of Public Safety to work with the Senate Pro Tempore or the House Speaker when commissioning officers.
* Firearms Regulations: SB 372 updates the scope of lawful carry in Oklahoma, amending previous statutes found in 21 O.S. 2021, Section 1277.
* Human Trafficking: SB 1810 mandates the inclusion of specific expert testimony in legal proceedings related to human trafficking.
* Preserving Oklahoma Values Act: SB 1679 establishes new legislative standards for the enforceability of certain contracts and court decisions within the state.
These bills, signed on May 13, 2026, represent a significant portion of the legislative output from the 60th Oklahoma Legislature. By formalizing officer commissioning and updating carry laws, the state continues to adjust its legal framework to align with current administrative and policy priorities.