Without fanfare, Ohio Governor John Kasich signed H.B. 234 into law Friday. While the gun law reform bill didn’t make all the changes that Second Amendment supporters desired, it made substantial improvements in the law, and was broadly supported in the legislature. That support was reflected by the large vote margins for passage of the bill; 24-6 in the Senate, 69-16 in the House. Among its provision, the bill . . .

Creates reciprocity to recognize concealed handgun permits from other states, much as drivers licenses are recognized.

Eliminates a provision in the law that equated semi-automatics firearms that could accept magazines with a capacity of more than 30 rounds as automatic weapons.

States that the Ohio CHL will meet the requirements of the national instant check system. This should allow CHL holders to purchase firearms by presenting their CHL to firearms dealers.

Allows for training certification by any “national gun advocacy organization” instead of the National Rifle Association specifically.

Allows for partial training online, but requires two hours of in person range time for CHL permit training.

Extends Ohio CHL permit expiration to the date of expiration on the permit, instead of upon change of residency.

Provides that entry into parking lots with a CHL shall not be considered criminal trespass.

Allows people in the Military, Peace Corps, and Service to America six months grace to renew an Ohio concealed handgun license.

Creates as “Shall Sign” provision for chief law enforcement officers who process National Firearms Act (NFA) forms.

Allows people with legal gun mufflers to use them for hunting game.

These common sense reforms have been sought in Ohio for many years. Second amendment activists say that they will be back for more reforms next year.

©2014 by Dean Weingarten: Permission to share is granted when this notice is included.

Gun Watch