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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WTVN)--The state of Ohio will no longer require citizens who carry a concealed weapon to have a permit.
Governor Mike DeWine signed Senate Bill 215 into law on Monday. It removes the requirement to obtain a concealed-carry permit in order to lawfully carry a concealed weapon.
The law takes effect in three months. Supporters call it "constitutional carry". The state of Ohio had required a CCW permit for almost 20 years.
The Buckeye Firearms Association says, "This is a great moment for Ohio and for those who wish to more fully exercise their Constitutional right to keep and bear arms. Gov. DeWine made a campaign promise to Buckeye Firearms Association and to Ohio's 4 million gun owners that he would sign a Constitutional Carry bill if it was put on his desk. And he has fulfilled his promise."
BFA Executive Director Dean Rieck adds Ohio will continue to offer CCW licenses, in order to fulfill reciprocity agreements.
A statement from Ohio House Minority Leader Allison Russo says, "SB 215 completely betrays Ohioans who have called time after time for commonsense gun safety legislation, not extreme bills that endanger the lives of our children and families. Republicans have made it crystal clear that they value the approval of the gun lobby more than the lives of Ohioans and the police officers who protect our communities every day."