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Legislation signed by Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin would limit the liability of owners, employees and customers for injuries that take place on gun ranges, gun shops and gun clubs.
Senate Bill 875, by state Sen. Anthony Sykes and state Rep. Dennis Johnson, would limit liability for injuries if the party in question acted in good faith. Liability would not be limited if the party involved acted intentionally, willfully or with wanton disregard for the safety of those injured.
Sykes said the legislation helps bolster the Second Amendment rights of Oklahomans.
“This measure will enhance our ability to exercise Second Amendment rights,” said Sykes (R-Moore). “Anyone who belongs to a gun club, uses a shooting range or simply wants to purchase a firearm will benefit from this act.”
“It’s not likely that you will get shot on a gun range, but there is a higher risk of getting shot on one than say in your own home,” said Johnson (R-Duncan). “Due to this, gun ranges and the people who frequent them are vulnerable to frivolous lawsuits. Creating a higher standard of culpability in order to sue is a reasonable and appropriate change to current law. I was extremely proud to see this legislation signed into law.”
Johnson said the legislation would limit the cost of liability insurance for these small businesses.
“This will help reduce the cost of liability insurance for these small businesses that are already struggling in our tight economy,” Johnson said.
The owner of Murf’s Guns in Duncan said he was pleased by the Legislature’s support of small business.
“This is common-sense legislation that is very much needed for small businesses in Oklahoma,” owner Ken Murfree said. “These are tough times and whatever lawmakers and the governor can do to mitigate some of the cost of doing business is much appreciated.”
The legislation takes effect on Nov. 1, 2012. The bill signed into law does not specify a monetary limit of liability.
Source: Oklahoma House of Representatives