Oklahoma is toughening its stance on gun violence, specifically targeting shootings into buildings and drive-bys, with new legislation pushed forward by Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle. According to an official release from the Oklahoma State Senate, Senate Bill 631 was advanced through the Senate Public Safety Committee, setting a stricter punishment for such offenses by making them 85% crimes – meaning the convicted would serve at least 85% of their sentence before parole or early release is even an option.

In a move that underscores the severity with which the state views such acts of violence, Pro Tem Paxton's bill includes provisions that specifically address willful and intentional discharges of a firearm at dwellings or buildings used for business or public purposes making the crime equivalent, in treatment, to a drive-by shooting yet, it has to pass through the full Senate before becoming law. "Right now, if you step out of a vehicle to shoot into a house, this crime is treated different than a drive-by shooting," Pro Tem Paxton said, highlighting the disparity in current legislation, "This legislation ensures that individuals who recklessly and intentionally endanger lives by firing into homes, businesses or public buildings face the serious consequences they deserve," as stated by the Oklahoma State Senate.

The bill proposes that those found guilty of these actions be charged with a felony, facing a potential two to 20 years of imprisonment, as indicated by statements from the Oklahoma State Senate release. This initiative is part of a broader effort by Oklahoma lawmakers to bolster public safety and curtail the number of violent crimes within the state, offering greater protection to residents in their homes and public spaces.

The advancement of Senate Bill 631 marks a shift in the state's approach to gun violence, giving district attorneys and law enforcement the much-needed discretion to effectively combat these crimes – and Pro Tem Paxton believes that this is a step in the right direction for Oklahoma, saying, "By adding this crime to the list of 85% offenses, we are sending a clear message that such violent actions will not be tolerated in Oklahoma," indication a marked push to clamp down on this specific brand of violence, as per the Oklahoma State Senate.