Firearms; modifying certain prohibition and exception related to unlawful carry. Effective date.

SB 501 amends Oklahoma's unlawful carry law to add a new exception allowing members or veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, Reserves, or National Guard (18-20 years old or 21+) to carry firearms in vehicles or while carrying on public roadways, provided they are not disqualified by law and not carrying for criminal purposes. It also adds convictions for drug violations under the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Act to the list of offenses that prohibit firearm possession. The bill directly affects young military personnel (18-20) who previously faced age restrictions for carry and individuals convicted of drug offenses, expanding carry rights for the former while restricting access for the latter. The changes take effect on November 1, 2025.