This week, in an eagerly anticipated move, the Ohio Senate passed House Bill 48, which removes sweeping restrictions on concealed-carry permit holders in many public buildings.
HB 48 had already passed overwhelmingly in the House. The measure removes barriers in state and local government buildings; childcare centers and in-home daycares without signs posting carry prohibitions; college and university campuses (with the assent of their boards of trustees); in vehicles in school safety zones; and public areas of airports. Carry in police stations and sheriff’s offices remains prohibited.
The Ohio House was expected to vote on another bill on Thursday, this time extending protections against employment discrimination to concealed-carry permit holders under the Ohio Civil Rights Act.
Pro-gun rights legislation in Ohio was put in the national spotlight after an attacker used his car and a knife to ram and stab 11 students on the Ohio State University campus on Nov. 28. HB 48 now goes to Gov. John Kasich for his consideration.
