COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Senate has passed Senate Bill 321, a measure that would authorize certain special police officers working within state health-related agencies to carry firearms while on duty.
The legislation, sponsored by State Senator Tim Schaffer (R–Lancaster), applies to special police officers employed by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health.
Under the bill, these officers would be permitted to carry firearms while performing their duties, a change supporters say is intended to improve safety during high-risk assignments such as transporting or escorting individuals in custody.
“Under current law, these special police officers do not have the same protections that most other law enforcement officers have today,” Schaffer said. He added that officers in these roles may face elevated risks due to interactions with individuals who are experiencing mental health crises or who may attempt to flee custody.
The bill also grants the two state agencies authority to set specific standards governing the possession, carrying, and use of firearms while on duty. Additionally, it prohibits officers from carrying a firearm if they are currently under investigation for alleged violations of conduct standards.
Senate Bill 321 now advances to the Ohio House of Representatives for further consideration.
