DARKE COUNTY — A bill expanding where Ohio concealed carry licensees may carry and allowing active duty military members to conceal carry now sits on the governor’s desk.
Early Friday morning, the Ohio Senate passed Senate Bill 199 (SB-199) by a vote of 22-8. If signed into law by Ohio Gov. John Kasich, it would allow active duty military to conceal carry a handgun with a valid military I.D. and documentation of successful firearms training.
As well, the measure would expand the areas where civilian concealed carry licensees may carry their guns, including employees keeping weapons in workplace parking lots. As well, the legislation lifts a ban on concealed carry in public areas of airports and daycares. Those places, however, could still choose to prohibit carry.
College campuses in The Buckeye State are also given leave to allow concealed carry on their grounds if they desire.
An earlier version of the bill in the Ohio House (HB-48) would have allowed concealed carry at state and local government buildings which do not have security checkpoints, such as a public library. This provision was scaled back before passage, however.
The National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA) applauded the Ohio General Assembly for passage of the legislation.
“Crimes can happen anywhere, at any time. Gun free zones don’t deter criminals, they create victims,” said Amy Hunter, Ohio spokesperson, NRA-ILA. “This important piece of legislation will make people safer. If enacted, concealed carry permit holders will be able to exercise their rights in places where they are currently left defenseless. Additionally, this bill awards military members — who are already among America’s most trusted citizens — more freedom to employ their Second Amendment freedoms.”
“This legislation would make Ohio a safer place. It’s as simple as that,” concluded Hunter.
Local legislators who co-sponsored the bill include 12th District Sen. Keith Faber (R-Celina), soon to be sworn in as 84th District Representative, as well as 5th District Sen. Bill Beagle (R-Tipp City), and 80th District Rep. Steve Huffman (R-Tipp City).
