NRA-Backed Constitutional Carry Passes Ohio Legislature

Fairfax, Va. - The National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action is pleased to announce the Ohio legislature passed NRA-backed constitutional carry legislation on Wednesday and the bill is en route to the governor’s desk for signature. 

“This is a huge moment for Ohioans, who value their Second Amendment rights — but have been forced to ask for extra government permission before fully exercising them,” said John Weber, NRA Ohio state director. “The NRA has spent years trying to get a bill like this passed in Ohio, and we’re hopeful the governor will sign and finally make this a reality.”

Constitutional carry simply allows law-abiding citizens, who are otherwise legally able to possess and carry a firearm, to carry that firearm for self-defense. Currently, it is legal for these law-abiding citizens to carry a firearm if the firearm is visible. If the governor signs SB 215, those same citizens will be able to carry that firearm under a jacket or in a purse. 

Last year, similar legislation passed in five states making constitutional carry the law in 21 states nationwide. This year, four states are considering the legislation, including Ohio. 

“Anti-gun activists try to mislead the public by saying this legislation will allow criminals to carry — nothing could be further from the truth. Similar bills have passed in 21 other states and there has been no resulting increase in crime. This bill simply codifies the fundamental right of all people to defend themselves wherever a self-defense situation may arise,” Weber concluded. 

SB 215 passed the House 57-35, and passed the Senate 24-8. The governor has 10 days to sign once he receives the bill. 

Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America's oldest civil rights and sportsmen's group. More than five million members strong, NRA continues to uphold the Second Amendment and advocates enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the armed services. Be sure to follow the NRA on Facebook at NRA on Facebook and Twitter @NRA.