This week, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland (D) signed NRA-backed “Castle Doctrine” legislation into law to expand the self-defense rights of law-abiding citizens.  SB 184, sponsored by State Senator Steve Buehrer (R-1), protects the rights of innocent victims to defend themselves from criminal attack, while expanding the rights of concealed-carry permit holders.  Please be aware that this law will not take affect until ninety days. 

“I want to thank all parties concerned for working together to make this victims’ rights bill the law in Ohio,” said NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox.  “When you’re confronted by a criminal, you don't have the luxury of time. Under the ‘Castle Doctrine’ provision, if someone breaks into your occupied home or temporary habitation, or your occupied car, you now have an initial presumption that you may act in self-defense and you will not be second-guessed by the state.  The ability to protect yourself and your family from harm is important no matter where you are.” 

Also included in SB 184 are several pro-gun provisions that improve Ohio’s Right-to-Carry laws.  Among these revisions are important clarifications allowing persons without a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) to legally transport firearms in an automobile and pick-up/drop-off abilities for license holders in school “safety” zones.  The bill also designates mandatory legal fees for gun owners who require court orders to have firearms returned to them, decriminalizes concealed carry in privately-owned parking garages, allows CHL holders to carry a firearm in an unlocked glove compartment or center console, and removes the written test requirement for renewal of a CHL.