COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio State Senate has passed legislation that would permit certain special police officers to carry firearms while on duty.
Senate Bill 321, sponsored by Tim Schaffer, applies to officers working with the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
Supporters say the measure addresses safety concerns for officers who regularly transport or supervise individuals with behavioral health needs.
“Under current law, these special police officers do not have the same protections that most other law enforcement officers have today,” Schaffer said. “These officers are particularly at risk due to the nature of their work.”
The bill also grants both departments the authority to establish policies governing when firearms may be possessed, carried, or used. It includes a provision that bars officers from carrying a firearm while under investigation for potential misconduct.
Senate Bill 321 now moves to the Ohio House of Representatives for further consideration.
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