Here’s what to know about Ohio’s gun laws

The Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland will be hosting the Republican National Convention this July.

A petition has been circulating on the internet, seeking to allow firearms to be openly carried inside the arena despite strict rules on their websites that state: “No weapons of any kind, including pepper spray, pocket knives and/blades of any kind.”

The petition was created on change.org last week and by Monday, the petition had around 50,000 signatures.

But even with the petition, it looks as though the rules will not be changed. The Secret Service says it will not permit weapons.

"Individuals determined to be carrying firearms will not be allowed past a predetermined outer perimeter checkpoint, regardless of whether they possess a ticket to the event," said Robert K. Hoback, a spokesman for the Secret Service.

This isn’t the only major political event coming to Ohio this year. In September, Wright State University will host the first presidential debate (link here).

These event will likely attract people from all over the country, so here are three things you should know about Ohio’s gun laws if you plan on packing:

  • Open carry of a firearm is not prohibited under state law unless the owner of private property post a sign prohibiting it. As long as the person with the gun does not act menacing with the weapon, no laws are being broken.
  • What about alcohol? Can you go into a bar and grab a drink with your firearm? Yes and no. with a valid concealed handgun license and a firearm you are permitted to go into an establishment that serves liquor but you CANNOT consume beer or intoxicating liquors.
  • If you are driving and are pulled over and you have a concealed handgun license and a loaded gun, here's what you need to remember: Promptly inform the law enforcement officer of your license and the firearm in your possession, always remain in the motor vehicle while stopped, and do not make contact with the loaded gun – it's better to just keep your hands in plain sight.

Whether you are a visitor or an Ohioan you can test your knowledge of gun laws in Ohio. Take an Ohio's gun law quiz here.

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