Speaker expects tests in '03

The Marion Star has published an article about expectations for the 125th General Assembly, and provides a look back at Larry Householder's first two years as Speaker, which were filled with challenges dealing with difficult budgets, caucus critics, and repeated spats with Senate leaders and Taft.

In the end, Householder emerged golden, winning three additional House seats, approving a majority of his priorities, and getting unanimous support to lead the House again.

But next session won't provide any relief. Among other prickly issues facing the Assembly, Householder discussed the concealed carry issue and his plans for the Spring.

Click here to read the entire Marion Journal story. An archived version of the story, edited down to just the portion of the article which pertains to the Concealed Carry Reform issue, follows.

By JIM SIEGEL
Marion Star Columbus Bureau

The Senate recently passed a concealed carry bill, but Householder refused to bring his members back to ratify it. Householder said Senate modifications to the bill were bad on several levels, including affirmative defense provisions, and restrictions on where a gun could be carried.

"We started looking at it and say, 'What's the point of having concealed carry, because it's almost impossible to carry a concealed weapon,'" he said. "The laws we're making up on this bill are for law-abiding citizens. The criminals are not going to follow any of these."

The House will pass a concealed handgun bill early next year, "and I guess give the Senate 22 months to deal with it," Householder said.