Ohio: Firearm Legislation Heating Up in Ohio

Yesterday, the House State Government Committee received sponsor testimony on the following three firearm-related bills:

• House Bill 20: Sponsored by Representatives Anne Gonzales (R-19) and Kyle Koehler (R-79), HB 20 would protect the rights of concealed handgun license holders transporting students to and from school by allowing them to enter the school safety zone granted the firearm does not leave the motor vehicle and remains locked inside the vehicle if the licensee must get out from the car for any reason.
  
  
• House Bill 48: Sponsored by Representative Ron Maag (R-62), HB 48 would expand the locations concealed handgun permit holders are allowed to carry to include (but not limited to) churches, state buildings and school safety zones (granted the firearm remains within the car). Universities and colleges would be given the choice under this legislation.
  
  
• House Bill 152: Sponsored by Representatives Ron Hood (R-78) and Thomas Brinkman, Jr. (R-27), HB 152 would create “constitutional carry” by recognizing the right of those who are 21 and older to carry a concealed firearm, without a permit, granted they are not prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law.  HB 152 also specifies that an otherwise law-abiding person carrying a firearm may not be searched or detained, and their firearm may not be seized, regardless of the time period.

Over the next several weeks, the State Government Committee will be holding proponent/opponent hearings on these bills.  Your NRA-ILA will keep you informed on these legislative proposals and any other related measures as the legislative session progresses.