West Lucas News

Legislation aimed at increasing penalties for the use of firearms in violent crimes has passed the Ohio House. Sponsored by State Representatives Josh Williams and Bernie Willis, the bill targets repeat offenders without altering existing gun laws for law-abiding citizens.

The Repeat Offender Act seeks to increase penalties for violent offenders possessing firearms while under disability due to prior felony convictions. It introduces a criminal enhancement specifically for repeat offenders who violate weapon restrictions.

"The majority of gun crime is committed by a handful of repeat offenders who are not allowed to possess a firearm," stated Williams. He emphasized support from Governor Mike DeWine, Attorney General Dave Yost, and the Ohio Mayors Alliance in maintaining Second Amendment rights while targeting violent felons.

Willis added, "This legislation equips Ohio with essential tools to enhance community safety and address the epidemic of violent crime in our state." He noted that public safety could be improved by removing repeat offenders without changing existing gun laws affecting lawful owners.

Under current Ohio law, possessing a weapon under disability is classified as a third-degree felony. The new legislation proposes elevating repeated offenses by violent felons to second-degree felonies. Offenders with prior weapons under disability violations and violent criminal histories may face an additional five-year weapons enhancement penalty, potentially extending sentences up to eight years for second-degree felonies.

The bill now proceeds to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.