SCHOOL LAW NEWSLETTER
Introduced January 28, 2015, House Bill 20 modifies two exceptions to Ohio’s general prohibition of possessing a deadly weapon in a school safety zone.
First, the bill provides a new exception for a person who carries a weapon in a school zone if: 1) the person has a valid concealed carry license; 2) the licensee is the driver or passenger of a vehicle and is in the school safety zone while immediately in the process of picking up or dropping off any person, document, or item; 3) the handgun does not leave the vehicle; and 4) if the licensee exits the motor vehicle, the licensee locks the motor vehicle. This modification broadens a current exception for someone lawfully possessing a weapon under a valid concealed carry license while immediately in the process of picking up or dropping off “any child,” to exempt a person picking up or dropping off “any person, document, or item.” The weapon must remain in the vehicle, and the vehicle must be locked if the licensee exits the vehicle.
Second, H.B. 20 eliminates an exception that allows a person to convey or possess a weapon in a school zone if: 1) the person has a valid concealed carry license; 2) the person is not entering the school building, entering onto school premises, or attending a school activity; 3) the person is in the school safety zone in accordance with federal law; and 4) the person is not knowingly in a place (other than a school safety zone), where concealed weapons are prohibited.
What You Need To Know
House Bill 2 broadens an exception to Ohio’s general prohibition of possessing a deadly weapon in a school safety zone. School Districts should keep an eye on this legislation to understand when and how deadly weapons are permitted in school safety zones.