The House Criminal Justice Committee will be holding a hearing for OPPONENT testimony on House Bill 347 introduced by Representative Jim Aslanides (R-94). This legislative proposal addresses several problems associated with the enactment of House Bill 12, "Right-to-Carry" legislation, which became law in 2004. This proposal would streamline an already successful law, bringing clarity for Ohioans and law enforcement alike.
This important piece of legislation would do the following: (1) create a clear definition of "plain sight" in a motor vehicle; (2) allow for off-duty law enforcement officers to carry a concealed firearm 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (a.k.a 24/7 provision); (3) create statewide preemption for the regulation of firearms and ammunition, therefore avoiding the patchwork of laws currently on the books in Ohio; and (4) further prohibit journalists from abusing the open records law.
The Hearing is scheduled for January 31, at 2:30 P.M. in Room 121. This bill hearing will surely bring out all of the anti-gun organizations in the state. Please plan on attending to show your support for HB 347. If you're unable to attend, please contact the House Criminal Justice Committee during normal business hours by calling Chairman Bob Latta (R-06) at (614) 466-8104.