TOLEDO, Ohio — On Monday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed a bill into law that made concealed weapon permits optional for people legally allowed to carry a gun. WTOL 11 reached out to lawmakers from both parties for reaction to the governor's decision.
This bill, which will go into effect June 12 will change Ohio law that has allowed gun owners to carry concealed weapons only if they get a permit and complete safety training.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate and former Dayton mayor Nan Whaley made a visit to Toledo Tuesday, meeting with voters at the Attic on Adams. One topic of discussion was the new concealed-carry law signed by Gov. DeWine.
"This conceal carry bill makes every community less safe. The Fraternal Order of Police, police chiefs, public health, everyone is against it. Mike DeWine knows better. He's too afraid to stand up to the extremist in his party and do the right thing," Whaley said.
Whaley said the issue with the new law is not so much about responsible gun owners, but on keeping guns out of the hands of those who would use them improperly.
Republican State Sen. Theresa Gavarone, R-Bowling Green, issued a statement Tuesday supporting the governor's decision.
"I think it is problematic that currently you can walk down any street in Ohio with a gun on your hip, but the second it starts raining and you put on a jacket, you somehow become a criminal. You don't need a government-approved license to openly carry a gun in Ohio. So, it only makes sense that you should not be required to get a license to carry concealed, and I was proud to co-sponsor and see the governor sign this pro-Second amendment legislation," Gavarone said.
Perrysburg Republican State Rep. Haraz Ghanbari also gave a statement on the bill.
"I fully support the Second Amendment and the constitutional right of law-abiding citizens to carry a firearm. In an age when police are defunded and criminals are attacking with impunity, I believe those who wish to carry for protection should be allowed to do so. Simultaneously, I encourage every citizen that possesses a firearm to seek proper training and act responsibly – especially when interacting with our women and men of law enforcement," Ghanbari said.
Additionally, under this law individuals are not required to "promptly" tell law enforcement when they're carrying a concealed weapon. But those carrying a concealed weapon must confirm they are carrying a weapon if asked by an officer.