Oklahoma law enforcement prepares for open-carry law

The law, which goes into effect Nov. 1, will allow those with permits to carry firearms under the Oklahoma Self Defense Act to choose whether to conceal their weapons or carry them openly. The law previously required permit holders to conceal their firearms.

Officials from several state law enforcement agencies said Wednesday they aren't sure how they will handle the new law.

“We're reviewing the statute and researching the law and will brief and train our troopers about the law after this process is completed,” Oklahoma Highway Patrol Capt. Chris West said.

Oklahoma City police will take a similar approach, Master Sgt. Gary Knight said. He said department officials are reviewing the law to see if any change in training is needed on how to approach a crime scene.

“Officers are always trained to watch people's hands. That's always where a weapon will be,” Knight said. “Whether this is going to cause any more issues with this remains to be seen.”

Police also will have to determine how to handle calls from the public when someone is spotted carrying a firearm.

Midwest City police will check for permits when they encounter someone openly carrying a gun, Assistant Chief Sid Porter said.

“When public safety comes up, that is No. 1,” Porter said. “If we see someone carrying a weapon in a holster, they have to have a permit on them and would be asked to show it. Anybody with a weapon on their side is considered a suspicious person.”