Concealed handgun permit holders could legally have clips loaded with bullets next to their weapons in their cars under legislation approved Wednesday by the Ohio House.
House lawmakers voted, 57-26, for the measure, which also would lift other restrictions in the concealed carry law.
The legislation also would free permit holders who are up for a license renewal from going through a competency course in firearms. Current law already requires applicants to undergo a first round of training to obtain a permit.
In addition, the legislation would require the Ohio Attorney General to enter into reciprocity agreements with all other states that recognize Ohio concealed handgun license holders. Currently, other states need to have substantially similar concealed carry laws for the Attorney General's office to pursue reciprocity agreements.
The bill would change the definition of "unloaded" so that a gun with a loaded clip alongside it would be considered unloaded. Rep. Terry Johnson, a Scioto County Republican, said the current gun law, which says a gun is loaded if the bullets are in a clip or a speed loader anywhere in the vehicle, makes no sense.
The bill — which is supported by the National Rifle Association and the Buckeye Firearms Association — now moves to the Ohio Senate for consideration. With state lawmakers headed home for summer break, the bill is likely to remain in the Senate until late in the year.
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