Today, the full Senate passed two important pro-gun reform bills. Senate Bill 17 would clarify carrying a firearm in a motor vehicle and allow a permit holder to carry a firearm in a restaurant and Senate Bill 61 would restore gun rights for certain individuals.
SB 17 passed by a 25 to 7 vote (roll call vote). Introduced by state Senator Tim Schaffer (R-31), SB l7 would also eliminate the current confusing standards of carrying a firearm in a motor vehicle. In addition, this proposal would also allow permit holders to carry a firearm for self-defense in a restaurant that serves alcohol, provided they are not consuming alcohol, thus eliminating another “victim zone” in Ohio.
SB 61 passed by a 27 to 5 vote (roll call vote). Introduced by state Senator Jason Wilson (D-30), SB 61 would bring Ohio in compliance with federal law to provide for the restoration of firearm rights for certain individuals.
Both bills now move to the House of Representatives for consideration. No action is needed at this time and the NRA will keep you posted on the status of SB 17 and SB 61.