Toledo Blade: Ohio concealed-gun bill gets a boost
The Ohio Fraternal Order of Police, a union representing 24,000 current and former officers, withdrew its opposition yesterday to a controversial bill allowing Ohioans to carry concealed handguns.
Supporters of the bill believe the move is significant in that Gov. Bob Taft has vowed to veto the measure without the support of law enforcement. The FOP assumed a position of neutrality, but fell just short of voicing outright support.
Spokesman Mike Taylor said the organization had become "comfortable" with the bill.
The governor’s office was negotiating with the Senate and meeting with representatives of law-enforcement organizations as the rhetoric against the bill softened.
"As the police organizations become more comfortable with it, he will at least be willing to look at it," said Taft spokesman Joe Andrews. He said the governor is seeking some changes, including a provision requiring gun dealers to offer trigger locks for sale when they sell firearms.
"Even if they put all these things in, it doesn’t necessarily mean he will sign the bill," said Mr. Andrews.
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