Bill > SB279

This bill amends Ohio law to prohibit businesses, state agencies, and political subdivisions from discouraging or preventing law enforcement officers from carrying weapons while off duty. Specifically, the legislation modifies existing statutes to clarify that establishments serving the public cannot restrict, prohibit, or discourage law enforcement officers or investigators from carrying weapons they are authorized to carry, regardless of whether they are on or off duty. The bill removes previous language about "restrictive firearms carrying policies" and adds that any business that violates this provision can be subject to a civil penalty of $10,000 per occurrence and may be liable for the attorney's fees of the injured party. Additionally, the bill creates a new section explicitly stating that state agencies and political subdivisions cannot prevent peace officers from carrying authorized weapons while off duty, with similar penalty provisions. The legislation aims to protect law enforcement officers' rights to carry weapons for personal protection outside of their official work hours, ensuring they can maintain their safety in various public settings such as hotels, restaurants, retail businesses, and other public accommodations.

Government Affairs

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb279