New Bill Could Put Guns In The Hands Of Criminals

“What the bill would have done is allow us to put guns in the hands of convicted felons,” SAID House Majority Leader, Fred Jordan on House Bill 1775.

“This doesn't address violent felonies. This is just specific for non-violent felon,” said the bill’s author, Republican Representative Todd Russ.
State lawmakers are divided over house bill 17-75. Representative Russ said it's aimed at ex-cons who have served their time and learned their lesson.

“Most felonies are 10 years. If they have gone 10 years with no other scrapes with the law. They've grown up and now they're 35 and a productive citizen in their community,” said Rep. Russ. 
The bill was put on hold in committee. Critics say the way the bill is written a non-violent crime would include drug charges, child porn and burglary.

“There was some real issues of what may not seem like violent felons but really are pretty violent folks who could have gotten firearms with if this bill passed the way it is today,” said Rep. Jordan.

Representative Jordan says there is already a process in place for felons to get back their rights with a pardon and expungement

“If we're going to pass another bill we need to modify that procedure.”
Russ said the process is ineffective.

“For them to say getting a pardon from the governor, get an expungement through the  DA’s office is a reasonable process is well,  I have objections to that”

Oklahomans we spoke with say they would feel concerned for their safety.

“They already have a bad track record. Why should they have a gun,” said Carl Coley

“They’re felons. They don't deserve to be in control of any weapons at all,” added Joesph Byrd.

Rep. Russ plans to work with other lawmakers and get the bill re-heard as soon as possible.New Bill Could Put Guns In The Hands Of Criminals

Posted: Wednesday, February 13 2013, 10:32 PM CST