Ohio House passes bill to allow concealed carry guns in buildings with courts

The Ohio House voted Wednesday to allow municipalities to OK concealed guns in buildings with courtrooms − when court hearings aren't happening.

This scenario arises when a municipal court is housed in the same building as city council chambers. House Bill 272 passed, 56-29.

“This legislation clarifies the law and empowers municipalities like the ones in my district,” state Rep. Adam Mathews, R-Lebanon, said in a statement.  “This is a victory for both Second Amendment rights and responsible governance.”

In 2020, Lebanon residents sued the Warren County city for allowing residents to carry concealed guns inside the municipal building while court wasn't in session. A judge ruled in favor of the city earlier this year, but it was still left with a hefty legal bill.

State Rep. Latyna Humphrey, D-Columbus, strongly opposed the bill, saying it raises concerns on multiple fronts, saying it provides "little comfort" for herself and her constituents since the bill is only for when court is in session.

"Another critical concern is the uncertainty regarding when court is the session," Humphrey said. "How will an ordinary person entering the building know if court is in session or not. ... No language in the bill specifies how the building should let citizens know."

The bill needs Senate approval and Gov. Mike DeWine's signature to become law. In recent years, Ohio's GOP-controlled Legislature has eliminated permits and training needed for concealed carry and approved a stand-your-ground bill.

House Bill 51, which would prohibit local police from enforcing federal gun restrictions, an attempt to curb Democratic President Joe Biden's proposed gun policies, was not voted on Wednesday.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio House passes bill to allow concealed carry guns in buildings with courts