Rep. Jarrells opposes GOP gun bills that would make schools and communities less safe, fail to address gun violence in Ohio

Rep. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) yesterday voted in opposition to two bills opponents say would make schools and communities less safe and fail to address gun violence in Ohio. House Bill (HB) 99 would allow school districts to arm teachers in the classroom without adequate training or safe storage requirements, while HB 227 would eliminate concealed weapon training and safety standards, including penalties for failing to notify police of a concealed weapon during a stop. 

“I voted against HB 227 and HB 99 because they fail to protect the mental health and safety of Ohioans. The unintended consequences of these laws can be great, including the loss of a loved one, due to an accidental discharge of a firearm. These bills present a true detriment to our families and children throughout Ohio. This is a risk our state cannot afford to take—Ohio deserves better.” said Rep. Jarrells.

Teachers and law enforcement are opposed to bringing more guns into schools. A 2018 survey found that 80% of teachers were “strongly opposed” to having armed faculty in schools. Ohio’s Fraternal Order of Police noted that the minimal training required by HB 99 is significantly less than the hundreds of hours of training required for police officers. Democrats expressed similar concerns that HB 99 only requires 20 hours of training for armed teachers during committee hearings.

Gun violence rates in Ohio surged in 2020, with 25 mass shootings recorded, up from 14 the year before. Emerging data shows that states that have passed permitless carry legislation are experiencing a substantial increase in gun violence. 

After passing the House, both bills move to the Senate for consideration.