Ohio's Concealed Carry Law, H.B. 12, allows those with the proper permit to carry concealed handguns into parks. The sponsor of the bill defended that position by asserting that "parks are places where people are attacked" and "no public business is conducted in parks." It is the government's business to provide safe, well maintained parks for the public to enjoy. As for parks being dangerous places, I would like to see some proof. Assaults in Columbus's 250 city parks are rare. I am aware of one incident in the past 5 years. One incident is one too many, but it does not merit the broad assertion that parks are dangerous places. Does it justify the need to carry a concealed handgun to defend against assailants in parks? It seems reasonable that the safest environment for our children and adults are parks and playgrounds that are weapon-free (except law enforcement officers sworn to preserve the peace for all citizens). * How many recorded assaults, attacks or crimes against other persons in your public parks?
* Any survey indicating a public perception that parks, trails or playgrounds are unsafe? * Other comments about the Concealed Carry Law or visitor safety concerns in your parks. Columbus officials will be strongly urging legislators to reconsider this law and amend it to permit local jurisdictions the authority to enact ordinances that would prohibit persons from carrying permitted concealed handguns as well as other weapons in parks, playgrounds and on trails. I will request your permission before using any of this information publicly. Mark Young Assistant Director Columbus Recreation and Parks Ph. (614) 645-3342
