A bill filed by Senator Jessica Garvin would raise the penalty for having an illegal firearm on school grounds. The offense would be upgraded from a misdemeanor to a felony under Senate Bill 1254. The fine would go up to $2,500 from the current maximum of $250. The accused could face up to one year in prison if convicted, at the discretion of the prosecutors.

“The horrific tragedy that rocked our state earlier this year at a Choctaw high school football game, along with other instances led to conversations with local officials to figure out how we can better protect our children and others on school campuses. While it’s already illegal to carry a firearm on school grounds, we determined the current state punishment is nothing more than a slap on the wrist. Senate Bill 1254 will hopefully deter those who want to cause harm in our schools,” Garvin said. “I’m pro-Second Amendment and have voted continuously to uphold this right for Oklahomans. I’m also in strong favor of protecting the lives of children and others on our school campuses. This bill is about stopping this illegal activity and giving prosecutors the power to pursue more significant charges.”