Several new laws will take effect this Friday in Oklahoma.

The biggest one is that a license to carry a weapon now is optional.

A change under House Bill 2597 is the Self-Defense Act no longer requires Oklahomans who are 21 years old, or veterans or military who are 18 and over, to obtain a permit.

If you are a legal resident over 21, in the military or a veteran and don’t have legal restrictions preventing you from possessing a gun, you have the right to carry.

However, there are places where firearms aren’t allowed:

• Bars or other places where alcoholic beverages are consumed as a primary purpose of the business;

• Government offices and buildings;

• Prisons or detention centers;

• Gambling places and professional sports arenas (unless allowed by the owner);

• Public schools, colleges and universities (the law allows for private and public schools to designate specific staff who may carry on school property);

• Any place prohibited by law enforcement.

After Nov. 1, an individual is no longer required to inform a law enforcement officer that they are carrying a firearm, but it is advised to let the officer know in advance if you are doing so.

Speeds on some Oklahoma highways could be raised. The speed limit could now be a maximum of 80 miles per hour on turnpikes and 75 on rural highways. The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority will decide if they'll raise the speed to 80.

Another new law says drivers have to move over at least one lane from all vehicles with emergency flashing lights, such as law enforcement and first responders.

Also, beginning Friday, persons under the age of 21 can enter a liquor store only if they are with their parent or legal guardian.