As a state law enforcement officer, Navy veteran, Oklahoma Teacher and most importantly follower of Christ I understand first-hand the increasing crisis of violence and terrorism that is targeting churches, “places of worship”, and Christians. These acts of terrorism are at an all-time high, and requires immediate constitutional, ethical, and legal intervention to ensure the safety and protection of our churches, “places of worship” and their congregations.

The Oklahoma Church Response Safety and Preparedness Act (CRSPA) was created to secure and protect all Oklahoma Churches and other “places of worship”. Currently, the requirement for “volunteer” security teams at churches and “places of worship” is to be licensed as private security guards through CLEET (Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training) is cumbersome and unnecessary for those who freely offer their time and effort without compensation.

“Volunteers and unpaid employees” within Oklahoma's religious institutions want to contribute to their communities' safety without facing bureaucratic barriers. Their commitment is undeniable—these individuals often possess invaluable experience in law enforcement, military, Fire and EMS and or other security and public safety sectors—and should not be discouraged by licensing procedures that do not account for their unique and voluntary roles. In fact, Oklahoma statute already exempts bars, taverns and strip clubs from the Oklahoma Security Guard and Private Investigator Act (21 OK Stat § 1272.1 “Carrying firearms where liquor is consumed”).

We urge the exemption of these dedicated individuals from the existing Oklahoma Security Guard and Private Investigator Act. By doing so, we empower our communities, allowing them to safeguard and protect their congregations from imminent threats without overstepping the boundaries into burdensome regulation. This legal adjustment would reflect a true partnership between faith-based communities and the state, promoting a safety-first approach tailored to their distinctive operational frameworks. 

The CRSPA prioritizes these considerations, recognizing the evolving realities of safety in places of worship. It’s essential we support pragmatic, faith-led security measures, enabling “volunteer” teams to operate without hindrance and with governmental support.

Please join me in urging the Oklahoma state legislators to pass this exemption and facilitate a safer environment for all. Sign this petition to support the seamless integration of volunteer security efforts in our sacred spaces and ensure the freedom to defend them.

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" -Matthew 5:9-