Headline: "Guns in bars cause no problems, local law officials say they have seen no real issues"

by Chad D. Baus

Lorain Morning Journal reporter Bill Delaney has done what few in the media are going to be willing to do - compare the claims of what opponents said would happen when Ohio's restaurant carry law went into effect with the reality that is being experienced so far.

From the article:

Almost a month ago, at midnight on Sept. 30, Senate Bill 17 became law, allowing concealed carry permit holders to bring their concealed handguns into places where alcohol is served, as long as they don't drink.

And so far, the law hasn't resulted in problems or violations, according to law agencies in the area.

"We haven't had any problems yet," said Huron County sheriff's Lt. Theresa Shean. "What I am truly finding is that people who come in for permits are responsible people, and they are very concerned in carrying out their rights in a responsible way.

"The people that should not have weapons, we're not going to see those people come in and apply for a permit," she said.

Supporters of the change in law say the measure is about allowing people who legally have the right to carry concealed weapons to be able to take them into establishments that serve alcohol, instead of leaving them in a vehicle. Guns must still be left outside if a bar or restaurant posts a "no guns" sign, under the new law.

Delaney goes on to note that opponents of the change predicted it would lead to a dangerous mix of booze and firearms.

Lorain County Sheriff's Capt. Jim Drozdowski also said his department has not run into problems yet.

"At this point, there's no noticeable difference," Drozdowski said. "But it's early. Most of the people we found that get the license are not the ones we have to worry about."

The article concludes by noting that concealed handgun license-holders "must take a 12-hour training course given by a qualified instructor and pass a final exam; fill out an extensive application, be fingerprinted and pass an FBI background check."

Just as they did when Ohio's concealed carry law was first passed in 2004, media outlets across the state and beyond repeated gun ban extremists' claims that changes to our law would lead to mayhem. The Lorain Morning-Journal and reporter Bill Delaney deserve credit for reporting on the fact that the law is working just as proponents said it would.

Chad D. Baus is the Buckeye Firearms Association Vice Chairman.

Related Article:
Locked and loaded: Concealed carry grows as critics' fears of 'bloodbath' proven wrong