Crimes and Punishment; Bus Passenger Safety Act; expanding scope of unlawful acts. Emergency.

Broader transit protections and criminal penalties

Oklahoma's law expands transit safety crimes and takes effect upon passage and approval. Covered public transit vehicles include buses, vans, cars, railcars, locomotives, trolleys, ferries, and other vehicles transporting the public. Terminals include stations, stops, platforms, depots, company-operated or leased facilities, reasonable areas immediately beside stops, and adjacent parking areas. Taking control of a covered vehicle through force, violence, or threats is a felony. Penalties are up to 20 years in prison, a $20,000 fine, or both. Intimidating, threatening, assaulting, or battering drivers, attendants, guards, or passengers is a felony when intended to seize a vehicle, disrupt service, or cause harm. Penalties are up to 10 years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both. Using a dangerous or deadly weapon in either crime brings up to 20 years, a $20,000 fine, or both. The weapon definition excludes weapons carried for lawful self-defense in compliance with the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act. Firing a gun into or within a bus, terminal, or other transportation facility is also a felony. That crime carries up to five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both. An exception allows defensive force based on a reasonable fear of imminent death or great bodily harm.