COLUMBUS – A bill criticized by opponents as “tone-deaf” in the wake of mass shooting incidents in Thousand Oaks, Calif., and elsewhere and described as “stand-your-ground on steroids” has cleared the Ohio House of Representatives.
The bill reverses Ohio’s standard of proof in gun violence cases, which puts the burden on the state to disprove a defendant’s claim that they were acting in self-defense.
“This bill is a huge step forward to providing the citizens of Ohio with clearer and concise gun laws and clarifying their right to bear arms,” said Rep. Terry Johnson (R-McDermott).
The measure was approved by 64-26 vote, but not until after a contentious debate on the House floor during which Democratic Rep. Stephanie Howse of Cleveland was gaveled down and her microphone shut off by Speaker Ryan Smith.
Critics like Rep. David Leland (D-Columbus), who called the bill “stand-your-ground on steroids” say it would turn Ohio into what they called a “shoot first” state.
“Our children want to be able to go to the movies, or a concert, or out with friends and not be afraid of a potential mass shooting. They want to live in places and cities that are trying to pass reasonable gun control measures. This bill doesn’t make anyone safer,” Rep. Kristin Boggs (D-Columbus) said.
Opponents also say the bill prohibits local control over gun safety regulations, violating Ohio’s constitutional home-rule guarantee.
The bill, which now heads to the Senate, reduces firearm offenses to minor misdemeanors and eliminates certain requirements for those driving with a concealed weapon.