Oklahoma Riot Law
Oklahoma has enacted laws that address the presence of rioters in streets, particularly through House Bill (HB) 1674, which was signed into law by Governor Kevin Stitt on April 21, 2021, and took effect on November 1, 2021.
This law provides immunity to drivers who unintentionally injure or kill individuals while fleeing from a riot, provided the driver exercised due care and reasonably believed they needed to flee to protect themselves from serious injury or death.
Under HB 1674, protesters who obstruct public streets, highways, or roads by hindering traffic can face misdemeanor charges, punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines up to $5,000. Additionally, those who participate in a riot and obstruct the normal use of a public street or highway are guilty of a misdemeanor, with penalties including up to one year in prison, a $5,000 fine, and restitution for any property damage that occurs.
The law defines "obstruct" to include rendering the street or highway "unreasonably inconvenient or hazardous" for cars' passage, which can include simply "standing" on the street or highway. The term "riot" is broadly defined under existing Oklahoma law to include a group of three or more people who make "any threat to use force".
Critics argue that the law could discourage peaceful protests and potentially protect drivers who use their vehicles as weapons against protesters, raising concerns about the implications for civil rights and the right to free speech.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Oklahoma has expressed serious concerns about the law and is considering legal actions to protect Oklahomans' right to free speech.
Looks like Governors all across the US are starting to activate their NGs.
This day should be known asTRIFECTA DAY!
Yup, it did look like Iran was holding back their punches.