Resident Aliens and Lawful Carry

[okiebryan]

Right now, Resident Aliens (those with green cards) can legally buy firearms, so long as they have no firearms disability. (felon, mentally ill)

However, Oklahoma requires people to be 1)residents of Oklahoma, and 2) United States Citizens to obtain a SDA license. (formerly Concealed Weapons License)

Some other states allow resident aliens to get a concealed carry license. Arizona and Virginia are two that I know of.

Should our legislature change this? I keep thinking that some resident alien from Canada or England or something would file suit against the state, but it hasn't happened.

Discussion?

 

[oklaccer]

As long as they are legal residents, there should be a way for them to protect themselves. Of course, it could be a slippery slope, allowing legal aliens, then the illegals will want the same protections. Where is the line drawn?

 

[okiebryan]

No slippery slope. Change one line in TITLE 21 § 1290.9 from "Be a citizen of the United States" to "Be a citizen of the United States or a resident alien lawfully authorized to live and work in the United States"

Oklahoma residency is already listed as a requirement.

Problem solved.

 

[okiebryan]

Really, the question is not so much can it be done, more like should it be done?

 

[MoBoost]

I believe the wording should be changed to allow legal residents to carry - especially since there are loopholes around it.

 

[Dave70968]

Really, the question is not so much can it be done, more like should it be done?

Why shouldn't it?

 

[Have Blue]

Really, the question is not so much can it be done, more like should it be done?

I don't recall the Second Amendment citing citizenship as a requirement. If they are in this country legally I don't see a problem. If fact I would say that according to the Constitution, it's their right.

 

[waltham41]

I would be willing to bet if you allowed legal immigrants to carry the illegals would be in the street protesting in short order.