The Freedom to Carry Act proposes significant amendments to the Ohio Revised Code, primarily focusing on the terminology and regulations surrounding concealed weapons licenses. The bill changes the term "concealed handgun license" to "concealed weapons license," allowing individuals to carry a broader range of deadly weapons beyond just handguns. It introduces new definitions for "deadly weapons" and establishes that local ordinances conflicting with the bill's provisions can be challenged in civil court. Additionally, the bill mandates that sheriffs conduct background checks on applicants and creates a unique identification system for concealed weapons licenses. It also outlines the establishment of a sheriff's concealed weapons license issuance expense fund to manage application fees.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the conditions under which individuals can carry deadly weapons in sensitive areas, such as school safety zones and courthouses, while providing exemptions for law enforcement and military personnel. It introduces penalties for violations and outlines the process for expunging records related to certain firearm offenses. The legislation aims to streamline the legal framework for carrying firearms, enhance the rights of individuals, particularly in the private security sector, and ensure compliance with safety regulations through mandatory training and requalification for firearm bearers. Overall, the Freedom to Carry Act seeks to balance individual rights with public safety considerations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 9.68, 109.69, 109.731, 311.41, 311.42, 311.43, 1547.69, 2921.13, 2923.11, 2923.111, 2923.12, 2923.121, 2923.122, 2923.123, 2923.124, 2923.125, 2923.126, 2923.127, 2923.128, 2923.129, 2923.1210, 2923.1211, 2923.1212, 2923.1213, 2923.16, 2923.17, 2953.35, 4511.19, 4749.10, 1533.04