Concealed Carry Law Expanded in Ohio

A measure signed last week by Ohio Gov. John Kasich makes several important changes to the Buckeye State’s concealed carry law, including expanding the places where those with valid Concealed Handgun Licenses (CHL) may carry handguns for personal protection.

Senate Bill 199 removes the current blanket prohibition of concealed carry on Ohio college campuses and daycare centers, and shifts the responsibility for CHL policies to individual college trustees and business owners.

Sponsored by state Senator Joe Uecker (R-14), SB 199 also exempts active duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces from the state CHL requirements if he or she holds a valid military ID card and certificate indicating completion of military small arms qualification.  

The measure received overwhelming support in the state House and final concurrence in the Senate Dec. 9 prior to heading to the governor’s desk. It was one of 17 bills signed by Kasich on Dec. 12. It was supported by the National Rifle Association (NRA) and Buckeye Firearms Association.

The bill also allows employees with a valid state CHL to store firearms in their personal locked vehicles while located in private company parking lots without fear of employer retribution.  

According to the NRA, employers in some states have adopted “No Firearms” policies that extend beyond the physical workplace to include employee parking lots – areas often accessible to the general public and not secure.  SB 199 prohibits employers from establishing, maintaining or enforcing such policies.

The expanded policies covered in the bill become effective in 90 days of signing.