BFA-supported HB 272 to allow concealed carry in government buildings passes House

On Dec. 6, 2023, House Bill 272 to allow concealed carry in certain government buildings passed the House with a vote of 57-29.

Sponsored by Representatives Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) and Justin Pizzuli (R-Scioto County), the bill would allow a concealed handgun licensee to carry a handgun in a building or structure that is not a courthouse, but in which a courtroom is located, when court is not in session.

The bill also would permit a nonresident of Ohio to obtain statutory relief from firearms disability based on an Ohio conviction, guilty plea, or delinquent child adjudication.

Current state law forbids carry in courthouses or buildings housing a courtroom even when court is not in session and when local authorities would prefer to allow it. This makes no sense given that localities have the authority to allow carry in other government buildings. Many smaller communities don't have a dedicated courthouse, but instead use multipurpose facilities where a courtroom may be located.

HB 272 would maintain the security of courtrooms while in session while allowing concealed carry at other times when citizens need to conduct municipal business.

BFA testified in favor of this bill in October.

The bill now moves to a Senate committee. BFA urges Senators to hear this bill, vote to pass it, and send it to the Governor for his signature.