Rep. Brent Criticizes Gov. DeWine's Hypocrisy on Gun Laws, Public Safety

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Juanita O. Brent (D-Cleveland) today criticized Governor Mike DeWine for his contradictory stance on gun safety in Ohio, following his statement on the killing of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.

“Governor DeWine is a political hypocrite telling protesters that guns have no place at a peaceful demonstration while simultaneously making Ohio a stand your ground state and passing constitutional carry,” said Rep. Brent. “DeWine needs to have a real level of restraint instead of signing every pro-gun bill placed on his desk.”

Pro-gun bills Governor DeWine signed into law include: 

• Stand Your Ground: Removed the duty to retreat, emboldening individuals to use deadly force in public;
• Permitless Carry: Allowed Ohioans to carry concealed weapons without a permit, background check, or a single hour of training; and
• Armed School Staff: Drastically lowered training requirements for firearms in school zones.