Permitless Carry Bill Delayed, Headed To Another House Committee

A bill that would allow Ohioans to carry concealed weapons without requiring training or a permit has passed a House committee — but still has to be heard by another.

It would end the current requirements for carrying a concealed gun, including passing a background check and completing eight hours of training. Similar "constitutional carry" measures  have already passed in more than a dozen other states. Ohio already allows open carry without a license.

House Speaker Larry Householder (R-Glenford) said he wants HB178 to be re-referred to another House committee, criminal justice, for further review. That addional step delays a potential vote by the full House chamber until fall at the earliest.

Members of the House Federalism Committee argued Wednesday over a provision in HB178 that would require a one-page pamphlet to accompany the purchase of a firearm. That document would provide information intended to help the purchaser understand gun ownership laws in Ohio, including a line about the “duty to retreat” at times when lethal force may be used in self-defense.

Pro-gun groups argued that could lead to someone second guessing what they should do before protecting themselves. Supporters of the pamphlet said they wanted gun owners to be as informed as possible.

The permitless carry bill also would drop the requirement to notify law enforcement when a person is carrying a weapon.

Opponents, such as Rep. Fred Strahorn (D-Dayton), says this bill is getting rid of common-sense policies.

“I think not requiring a permit and training makes everyone less safe, including the gun owner,” Strahorn said.

Chris Dorr with Ohio Gun Owners says the bill’s momentum is a sign that gun owners are organized and mobilized.

“What we have been fighting this entire time is getting government out of the rights, regulation business and we just took an important step here today,” Dorr said.Copyright 2019 The Statehouse News Bureau. To see more, visit The Statehouse News Bureau.