OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma - April 26, 2010 - A pair of conservative state lawmakers criticized for endorsing the creation of a state militia have won final approval of their bill to exempt Oklahoma-made firearms and ammunition from federal regulations. Opponents fear the bill might extend to silencers and machine guns and ultimately endanger law enforcement officers.

The Oklahoma House voted 81-14 on Tuesday for the “Oklahoma Firearms Freedom Act,” sponsored by state Rep. Charles Key and Sen. Randy Brogdon, an Owasso Republican and gubernatorial candidate.

The bill says firearms, gun accessories or ammunition produced in Oklahoma would not be subject to interstate commerce laws and federal regulations if the items remain in the state. The bill does not apply to certain large firearms and exploding ammunition.

The measure, which cleared the Senate on a 39-3 vote, now heads to Democrat Governor Brad Henry, who has not said whether he will sign it.

Key (R-Oklahoma City) argued the Constitution leaves to states the right to regulate intrastate commerce, and that the bill is intended to protect Oklahomans’ right to keep and bear arms.

“Most people favor protecting their constitutional rights,” Key said.