The bill amends sections 2923.121 and 2923.1214 of the Revised Code and enacts a new section, 2923.1215, to enhance the rights of law enforcement officers regarding firearm possession. Specifically, it prohibits businesses, state agencies, and political subdivisions from discouraging or prohibiting law enforcement officers from carrying weapons while off duty. The bill clarifies that establishments serving the public cannot restrict a law enforcement officer or investigator, who is carrying validating identification, from carrying a weapon on their premises, regardless of whether they are acting within the scope of their duties. Additionally, it introduces a civil penalty of $10,000 for violations of this provision and allows for the recovery of attorney's fees for injured parties.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing provisions related to firearm possession in establishments serving alcohol, ensuring that law enforcement officers and certain other individuals can carry firearms under specified conditions. It also repeals previous language that defined restrictive firearms carrying policies and clarifies the definitions of terms such as "validating identification" and "law enforcement officer." Overall, the legislation aims to protect the rights of law enforcement personnel to carry firearms while off duty and to hold businesses accountable for any violations of these rights.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2923.121, 2923.1214