HB 1558 Summary

• Amends 21 O.S. 2011, Section 1903 (Bus Passenger Safety Act) to replace "bus" with "public transportation" throughout the statute for updated terminology.

• Increases penalties for seizing control of public transportation by force or violence to up to 20 years imprisonment and/or a fine up to $20,000.

• Increases penalties for intimidating, threatening, assaulting or battering transportation staff or passengers to up to 10 years imprisonment and/or a fine up to $5,000.

• Expands exception to weapons prohibition on public transportation to include persons with valid handgun licenses issued under the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act, in addition to authorized law enforcement officers.

• Becomes effective November 1, 2013.