School teachers and other staff at educational institutions across the state of Ohio will now be allowed to carry firearms on campuses, including inside classrooms, after House Bill 99 came into effect this week.
The bill was signed into law on June 13 by the state’s Republican Gov. Mike DeWine. It allows school districts to decide independently whether teachers can be armed. Schools must inform parents if they allow armed staff on their premises. Those who are armed will be subject to annual criminal background checks.
The bill “does not require school districts to arm its teachers,” DeWine said at the time. “Every school district can make its own decision. This is a local choice not mandated by the state or governor. This bill is part of a comprehensive and layered approach to school safety and keeping kids safe in schools.”…