Ohio House approves bill to allow weapons in bars

WEST CHESTER, OH (FOX19) - WEST CHESTER, OH (FOX19) - Wednesday, the Ohio house  approved two bills that relax gun restrictions. The first allows certain gun owners to take concealed firearms into bars and other places where alcohol is served. The other allows people convicted of certain misdemeanor drug offenses to possess firearms.

"I just don't think guns and alcohol mix period," said Will Moore.

The piece of legislation would allow a legal gun owner to bring a concealed firearm into a bar, but that person can't drink. Many believe that's a recipe for disaster.

"My mom always told me to look before I leap and think before you make strong decisions and it just doesn't seem like a lot of people thought about this a lot," said Mike Parsons.

There are many people that fully believe in the country's second amendment, the right to bear arms, even when it comes to where alcohol is served.

"Conceal weapon permit holders have a pretty good record of not breaking the law," said Bill Langdon, Grand Ole Pub owner. "They've had a background check and training. I don't know why you couldn't bring one in."

The Ohio House passed the piece of legislation 56-39. The measure would also allow gun owners to carry or transport a loaded handgun in a vehicle regardless if it is secured in a holster or case.