Statehouse Republicans ignore Ohioans' calls for commonsense gun safety as permitless concealed carry takes effect

COLUMBUS- Today, State Rep. Latyna Humphrey (D-Columbus) issued a statement as Senate Bill (SB) 215, Republican legislation that allows Ohioans to carry hidden, loaded handguns in public without a permit, takes effect. Additionally, SB 215 eliminates the requirement for concealed weapon training and reduces penalties if a gun owner fails to notify law enforcement they are carrying.

This morning, Gov. DeWine also signed House Bill (HB) 99, legislation to allow teachers and staff to be armed in schools. Police, teachers’ unions, civil rights groups and students all strongly oppose this legislation and the effects it would have on our children and schools.

“I firmly support the Second Amendment right to bear arms, but it is important that we have sensible measures such as trainings and background checks to make sure that these weapons are in the right hands. It is our duty as state legislators to keep our kids and communities safe. Extreme legislation like this is not the way,” said Rep. Humphrey.