After many hours, meetings, discussion, and efforts to improve HB274 we feel quite a bit of change has taken place since HB274 was first introduced last year. As many of you may recall, we were opposed and have been opposed to many different aspects of the legislation, but we have never been opposed to a "permit style" piece of legislation.

We believe this legislation is not perfect. Many would argue that perfect is a Vermont bill, but we would not be the first to point out that no state in this country has ever passed "Vermont Style Legislation". The unique situation in Vermont came about as a result of a Vermont Supreme Court ruling in the early 1900's, similiar to the Hamilton County Lawsuit pending in an appeals court, where a hearing is ironically scheduled for today at 9:00AM. (Wednesday)

While we are not entirely pleased with House Bill 274, we do agree with many individuals who would suggest the bill has come a long way since day one. We believe our input has been heard, suggestions have been implemented and denied, and we feel now is the time to pass concealed carry reform. This legislation should be moved out of the Civil & Commercial Law Committee and given to the Ohio House to go on record for the first time in seven or eight years.

While we support the passage of HB274 we do not neccesarily endorse 100% of the existing language, nor do we have a crystal ball. Changes to this legislation are expected to occur in the Committee, but anti-gun amendments, poison pills, or modifications we would likely never agree to are always possible at the last minute.

At this time we believe the legislation should be rushed through both the Ohio House and Senate, then placed firmly on Governor Bob Taft's desk for his signature or rear pocket.

We need your help to make that happen. Please visit our Letter Generation Tool and provide your complete address information. The system will identify your district, State Representative, and his or her direct telephone number. You should call them right now, even if it means leaving a voicemail message, and tell them you want Concealed Carry Reform passed and absolutely no anti-gun amendments permitted to pass.