BFA-backed SB 392 'Freedom to Carry Act' scheduled for 1st hearing May 20

An Ohio Senate bill that would advance gun rights on multiple fronts is up for its first hearing in the Senate General Government Committee on Wednesday, May 20.

Senate Bill 392, known as the Freedom to Carry Act and supported by Buckeye Firearms Association, would, among other things, rename a concealed handgun license a concealed weapons license, allow a concealed weapons licensee to carry a concealed deadly weapon other than an exclusive deadly weapon, allow the possession or transportation of a loaded firearm while in a motor vehicle or vessel, and lower the age of "qualifying adult" from 21 to 18.

SB 392, introduced March 23 by Sens. Al Cutrona (R-Canfield) and Terry Johnson (R-McDermott) and referred to the Senate General Government Committee on March 25, proposes significant revisions to Ohio’s weapons laws by expanding the scope of lawful carry, broadening the definition and treatment of “deadly weapons,” and reinforcing statewide preemption over local regulation. The legislation renames the current concealed handgun licensing framework and substantially increases the rights of license holders and individuals generally with respect to possession, transport, and carry. For a more in-depth description of the bill, check out our April 7 article.

The committee will meet at 2:30 p.m. Live coverage will be available on the Ohio Legislature homepage and later on the committee's video webpage.

Joe D. "Buck" Ruth, a pen name for Scott Hummel, is a longtime small-game hunter and gun owner who spent nearly three decades in the news industry. He is the website and social-media manager for Buckeye Firearms Association.