HB 2998 Summary

• Amends the Bus Passenger Safety Act (21 O.S. 2011, Sections 1902, 1903, and 1904) to update language and modify definitions related to bus transportation crimes.

• Redefines "bus" as a vehicle designed to carry passengers that is part of a network running on a regular schedule of routes, times, and fares, replacing reference to Section 1-105 of Title 47.

• Clarifies that "deadly or dangerous weapon" includes weapons listed in Sections 1287 and 1289.3 through 1289.5, excluding weapons carried for lawful self-defense under the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act.

• Maintains criminal penalties for bus hijacking (up to 20 years imprisonment and $20,000 fine), intimidating or assaulting bus personnel (up to 10 years and $5,000 fine), and unlawful discharge of firearms on buses (up to 5 years and $5,000 fine).

• Takes effect November 1, 2016.