Bill to Strengthen, Restore Concealed Carry Rights Passes Ohio House

Release:

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today passed legislation to amend Ohio’s concealed carry laws to make them simpler and consistent with other states.

 

Specifically, House Bill 45—which was jointly sponsored by State Representatives Danny Bubp (R-West Union) and Terry Johnson (R-McDermott)—will simplify the provisions related to the carrying of firearms in vehicles by eliminating the “micromanaging” provisions that dictate where a gun must be stored in a vehicle, which allows law-abiding citizens to avoid accidental violations. It retains the current procedures that are followed when a licensee is pulled over and approached by a law enforcement official.

 

The legislation would also permit license holders to carry in establishments that serve alcohol provided that the individual is not consuming alcohol. It does not change the current law prohibiting an individual from possessing a firearm while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Establishments would still have the authority to prohibit concealed carry.

 

“House Bill 45 is a responsible way to allow Ohioans to keep themselves and their families safe, while also ensuring that our laws respect our Constitutional rights,” Johnson said.

 

In addition to simplifying existing concealed carry laws, House Bill 45 will bring Ohio’s carry regulations in line with most other states’ regulations. According to the Buckeye Firearms Association, of the 48 states that issue concealed carry licenses, 42 allow licensees to carry in restaurants as long as they are not drinking.

 

“Ohio’s responsible, law-abiding gun owners should not be penalized with stricter regulations than gun owners of any other state,” said Bubp. “I am pleased that this legislation has passed the House and is one step closer toward protecting our Second Amendment rights.”

 

This legislation was originally introduced during the previous General Assembly as Senate Bill 239, which received the support of the National Rifle Association, the Buckeye Firearms Association and Ohioans for Concealed Carry.

 

House Bill 45 will now move to the Ohio Senate, where it will undergo further consideration.