Gun legislation that includes a controversial “stand your ground” self-defense provision is headed to the House floor after a legislative committee favorably reported on the bill Tuesday afternoon.
The House Policy and Legislative Oversight Committee voted 7-4 in favor of House Bill 203. The most contentious provision would eliminate Ohio’s law requiring a person to retreat before using deadly force in self-defense. Under current Ohio law, residents have no duty to retreat only when they are in their homes, cars, or the vehicles of immediate family members – a so-called “castle doctrine.”
Critics say the change could allow killers to go free. They’ve compared the proposal to Florida’s “stand your ground” law, which came under scrutiny during the trial of George Zimmermann for shooting 17-year-old Trayvon Martin.
Proponents of “stand your ground” say the proposal differs significantly from Florida’s law and that the duty to retreat is outdated. They dispute opponents’ fears that the change would create a “Wild West” situation.
If the bill becomes law, Ohio would automatically recognize concealed handgun licenses issued by any state that recognizes Ohio’s licenses.
The legislation also seeks to make Ohio compliant with the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, so anyone with a state handgun license doesn’t have to get an NICS check when they purchase a firearm.
Other parts of the bill would:
- Reduce the amount of firearms training needed to obtain a concealed handgun license from 12 hours to four hours.
- Allow out-of-state residents to receive an Ohio concealed weapons permit.
- Exempt members of the military, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, or the U.S. Foreign Service — as well as their immediate family members — from having to renew a concealed handgun license while on active duty and for six months afterward.
- Enact benefits for those who challenge local gun control ordinances in court.
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