US News
Ohio Republicans pass bill expanding rights to own silencers, short-barreled shotguns
Associated Press reports both chambers passed the measure Tuesday, sending it to Gov. Mike DeWine to sign or veto.
The short version
- Ohio Statehouse Republicans passed legislation Tuesday expanding legal rights to possess silencers and short-barreled rifles and shotguns.[Associated Press]
- Both chambers approved the measure, which now goes to Gov. Mike DeWine to sign or veto.[Associated Press]
- Republicans and gun advocates say a second background check process is duplicative, while Democrats argue looser rules raise gun violence risk; Rep. Tex Fischer denies that.[Associated Press]
Key facts
- Ohio Statehouse Republicans approved a bill on Tuesday widening legal possession of silencers and short-barreled rifles and shotguns.[Associated Press]
- Both the House and Senate passed the measure Tuesday, sending it to Gov. Mike DeWine to sign or veto.[Associated Press]
- Gunshots killed more than 1,700 Ohioans in 2024, according to the most recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.[Associated Press]
- The Legislative Service Commission counted 26 possession incidents and 16 concealed carry incidents involving dangerous ordnance in 2025.[Associated Press]
What remains uncertain
- It is unknown whether Gov. Mike DeWine will sign or veto the bill.[Associated Press]
- Whether the bill increases gun violence is disputed; Democrats raise concerns while Republicans deny the bill makes Ohio less safe.[Associated Press]
- Incident counts may understate actual totals because the Legislative Service Commission relies on voluntary police reporting.[Associated Press]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Ohio Republicans loosen rules for sawed-off shotguns, gun silencersAssociated Press · Wire: associated-press