From OHIO HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS
Ohio House Democratic lawmakers have voiced objections over House Bill (HB) 233, legislation that allows concealed carry permit holders to knowingly bring guns or deadly weapons into daycares, schools, airports, bars and other restricted spaces, so long as the permit holder leaves when asked to do so. Individuals who refuse to leave or return to the same business while carrying a prohibited weapon within 30 days will be subject to a fourth degree misdemeanor.
“This isn’t just a solution looking for a problem, but it is creating a whole new set of public safety problems by overturning Ohio laws designed to keep us safe and secure,” said House Democratic Leader Fred Strahorn (D-Dayton). “This will trample property rights of business owners and create confusion in secure locations like airports, police stations, schools and daycares. As a gun owner and strong second amendment supporter, I think Ohioans deserve to feel safe and secure, free from the fear of intimidation or tragedies this bill could create.”
HB 233 essentially eliminates any penalty for permit holders who knowingly carry a deadly weapon in a secure area if they leave the premises upon request.
“This bill will not keep our children and communities safe. In fact, it will trample on their right to be in safe public spaces that are deadly weapon-free,” said Minority Whip Nickie Antonio (D-Lakewood). “This legislation is both irresponsible and dangerous.”
The bill also modifies the list of places required to post signs notifying consumers of prohibited weapons. Under HB 233, daycares and certain government buildings are no longer encouraged to post prohibited weapon signage, and airports must alter their signage placement from the airport facility to passenger or screening checkpoints.
“While the majority of Ohioans are law abiding citizens and responsible gun owners, there is always the possibility that a tragic event could happen in what should be our safest locations. This bill puts citizens and most importantly our children in harm’s way.” –Assistant Minority Leader Nick Celebrezze (D-Parma).
The bill now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
