When the COVID Crisis initially unfolded in early 2020, state reactions were as diverse as anyone could imagine. While some governors openly encouraged people to get outdoors to hunt and fish, some, including Washington’s Jay Inslee and Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer, actually banned some outdoor activities and seasons.
Ohio legislators took note of these overreaches and have included protections for businesses related to hunting, fishing and trapping as part of a bill intended to protect Second Amendment rights during a declared emergency. House Bill 325 – and its companion Senate Bill 185 – declares that government may not prevent firearms commerce, concealed handgun permits, training classes or shooting range availability during a declared emergency.
Take Action! Ohio sportsmen should contact their state representatives and urge them to vote “yes” on House Bill 325. Sportsmen can find their representative by using the Sportsmen’s Alliance Legislative Action Center!
But in addition to these gun related protections, the bills also protect hunting, fishing and trapping business. Businesses protected would include bird hunting preserves, pay fishing lakes, fishing guides and hunting outfitters.
Senate Bill 185 passed the Ohio Senate 23-7 on Oct. 20. On Tuesday, Feb. 8, the House Government Oversight Committee voted 8-4 in favor of HB 325, setting the stage for a vote before the full House.
The Sportsmen’s Alliance is working with local partners, including Buckeye Firearms Association and the National Rifle Association, to see these important protections enacted.
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
