Update on Pro-Gun Legislation in the Buckeye State!

Today, February 15, the House State Government and Elections Committee will be taking proponent testimony for House Bill 45 at 1:30 pm in room 116 at the state capitol.  Introduced by state Representatives Danny Bubp (R-88) and Terry Johnson (R-89), HB 45 would eliminate the current confusing standards of carrying a firearm in a motor vehicle.  In addition, the 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.

This legislation is a critical step forward to help assure that Right-to-Carry permit holders are not arrested for accidentally carrying their firearm in a prohibited manner.

If you would like to attend and/or testify in support of HB 45, please arrive early and check-in at the door.

If you are unable to attend, please call and e-mail members of the House State Government and Elections Committee and urge them to support HB 45.  Contact information for the members of the House State Government and Elections Committee can be found here.

Also to be heard for sponsor testimony in the Senate Judiciary – Criminal Justice Committee are Senate Bill 17 and Senate Bill 61.

SB 17, “Concealed Carry Reform” legislation, sponsored by state Senator Tim Schaffer (R-31), like HB 45 listed above, would eliminate the current confusing standards of carrying a firearm in a motor vehicle.  In addition, the 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, “Restoration of Rights” legislation, sponsored by state Senator Jason Wilson (D-30), would bring Ohio in compliance with federal law to provide for the restoration of firearm rights to individuals.

No action is needed at this time on either bill and we will keep you updated for any future action that may be necessary.

This Wednesday, February 16, House Bill 54 will be heard for sponsor testimony.  No action is needed for HB 54 at this time and we will keep you updated on its status for future action.

HB 54, “Restoration of Rights” legislation, sponsored by state Representatives Ron Maag (R-35) and Jarrod Martin (R-70), like SB 61 listed above, would bring Ohio in compliance with federal law to provide for the restoration of firearm rights to individuals.

Please continue to check your e-mail and www.NRAILA.org for updates on these pro-gun bills.