Yesterday, The Arms Guide posted about an increase in firearms restriction due to the long gun registry that begins at the start of 2014. On the opposite side of the spectrum, Columbus station 610 WTVN reported on the Ohio legislature’s recent discussion of a bill that would modifying their concealed carry to a “constitutional carry” solution.
Presently, Ohio uses a shall-issue system, but there are a few steps applicants must complete before being deemed eligible to receive their permits. Concealed carry permit applicants must apply at their local sheriff’s office. Anyone looking to acquire their CWP (concealed weapons permit) must complete a 12 hour training course (including 10 hours of class instruction and 2 hours of handgun shooting instruction) and bring their certificate of completion to their local sheriff’s office. Applicants must also pass a background check (and pay for it), submit their fingerprints, and read the Ohio’s Concealed Carry Laws and Lisence Application handbook, and pay a fee for the permit itself ($67 for +5 year OH residents, and $91 for <5yr OH residents).
The bill, proposed by co-sponsors Ron Hood (R) and Matt Lynch (R), would open up concealed carry to anyone over 21 years old who is legally able to own firearms. This unrestricted, or constitutional, carry system is similar to the concealed carry systems currently in effect in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Vermont, and Wyoming.
Some who oppose the constitutional carry proposal have voiced concern over removing the training requirement, while supporters have expressed that the right to conceal carry is protected under the 2nd Amendment. Where do you stand on unrestricted concealed carry?
Featured image courtesy of contributor koi88 via iStockphoto.com
