Senate Passes Schaffer Bill Allowing Special Police Officers To Carry Firearms While On Duty

COLUMBUS—The Ohio State Senate passed Senate Bill 321, sponsored by State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster), legislation which allows special police officers with the Department of Developmental Disabilities or Department of Behavioral Health to carry firearms while on duty.

“Under current law, these special police officers do not have the same protections that most other law enforcement officers have today,” Schaffer said. “Unfortunately, in today’s world, officers with a badge are always a target. These officers are particularly at risk due to the nature of transporting or escorting individuals who are not mentally stable and present an increased risk of escape.”

The legislation also allows the Department of Behavioral Health and Department of Developmental Disabilities to establish requirements for the possession, carrying, or discharge of firearms while on duty. The bill would also prevent a special police officer from possessing or carrying a firearm on duty if they are under investigation for an alleged violation of standards of conduct.

Senate Bill 321 now goes to the Ohio House for further consideration.

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