Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry SignsNRA-Backed Castle Doctrine Bill Into Law

Fairfax, VA—Today Governor Brad Henry signed the National Rifle Association (NRA)-backed “Castle Doctrine” self-defense bill into law.

“I want to thank Governor Brad Henry for signing this victims’ rights bill into law,” said Chris W. Cox, NRA’s chief lobbyist. “When you’re confronted by a criminal, you don’t have the luxury of time. This bill states that if victims choose to stand their ground and fight, their decision will not be second-guessed by the State of Oklahoma.   The ability to protect yourself, your children, or your spouse from harm is important, whether you're in your home or outside.”

HB 2615, the "Castle Doctrine" self-defense bill, simply states that if a criminal breaks into your home, your occupied vehicle or your place of business, you may presume he is there to do bodily harm and you may use any force necessary against him. It also removes the “duty to retreat” if you are attacked in any place you have a legal right to be. 

HB 2615 provides protection from criminal prosecution and civil litigation for those who defend themselves from criminal attack. The “Castle Doctrine” bill met with overwhelming, bipartisan support, passing 96-2 in the state house and 83-4 in the senate. Oklahoma joins eight other states who have signed similar legislation into law this legislative cycle.

“On behalf of all NRA members in Oklahoma, I want to thank Governor Brad Henry for signing this important bill into law. I’d also like to thank the bill’s chief sponsors, Representative Kevin Calvey (R-94) and Senator Harry Coates (R-28), for their leadership in passing this vital measure,” concluded Cox. “The Castle Doctrine bill is about putting the law back on the side of the victim, the way it’s supposed to be.”

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Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen's group.  Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime.  The Association remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military.