Dayton Daily News: Concealed-weapons legislation debate continues
The conceal-and-carry bill being debated in the legislature has become one of the state’s hottest issues. A Senate committee has been hearing testimony on the measure this week and probably will vote on it next week, said Sen. Jeff Jacobson, R-Butler Twp., the committee chairman who is negotiating the bill. It had been set for a vote today.
The House was to have adjourned this week, but might return next week to vote on the conceal-and-carry bill if it passes out of committee and the full Senate.
Sen. Eric Fingerhut, D-Cleveland, who opposes the measure, said it is a “forgone conclusion” the bill will make it to the governor's desk.
“I truly believe that the outcome of this important debate depends on Gov. Taft,” Fingerhut said.
Gov. Bob Taft is meeting with law enforcement groups to create a bill they like. He has said he will not sign a bill that major law enforcement groups oppose. He singled out the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police, which represents 24,000 officers, as the group he is most concerned with pleasing.
“We’re working to try to make sure that the FOP . . . are satisfied,” said Taft, who has his own list of concerns and is making no promises to sign a bill even if they are met. “My focal point is on the men and women who are out there every day on the front lines.”
The legislation has its best chance in years to get to Taft’s desk, said Senate President Richard Finan, R-Evendale.
Commentary by Chad D. Baus:
Persons calling Bob Taft's office why their Republican Governor given so much legislative bargaining power to a labor union on this issue.
Persons calling Senator Finan and Jacobson can find a list of suggested discussion items in our Grassroots Action Guide.
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