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Are bump stocks legal in Ohio?

Are Bump Stocks Legal in Ohio?

As the debate surrounding gun control and gun rights continues to rage on, one topic that has gained significant attention in recent years is the legality of bump stocks. Bump stocks are devices that can be attached to semi-automatic firearms, allowing them to fire at a faster rate, similar to fully automatic weapons. But are they legal in Ohio?

The Short Answer

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In Ohio, the legality of bump stocks is a bit complex. While they are not explicitly banned by state law, the use of bump stocks is heavily regulated. In 2018, the federal government banned the sale, manufacture, and possession of bump stocks, but this ban does not apply to bump stocks that were already in possession of individuals prior to the ban.

Federal Law

On December 20, 2018, the federal government passed the Fix NICS Act, which included a provision that banned the sale, manufacture, and possession of bump stocks. The ban was effective immediately, and individuals who already owned bump stocks were allowed to keep them, but they were prohibited from transferring or selling them.

Ohio State Law

Ohio state law does not explicitly ban the possession or use of bump stocks, but it does regulate their use. Under Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.15, it is illegal to use a firearm to commit a felony, which includes the use of a bump stock. Additionally, Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.16 prohibits the possession of a firearm that is modified to fire in a fully automatic manner, which could include bump stocks.

Local Ordinances

Some cities and counties in Ohio have enacted their own ordinances regulating the use of bump stocks. For example, the city of Columbus has an ordinance that prohibits the use of bump stocks, while the county of Cuyahoga has an ordinance that requires individuals to register their bump stocks with the sheriff’s office.

Consequences of Illegal Use

If an individual is found to be using a bump stock illegally in Ohio, they could face serious consequences. Under Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.15, the use of a firearm to commit a felony is punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Additionally, individuals who violate local ordinances regulating bump stocks could face fines and/or imprisonment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while bump stocks are not explicitly banned by Ohio state law, their use is heavily regulated. The federal government has banned the sale, manufacture, and possession of bump stocks, but individuals who already own them are allowed to keep them. However, the use of bump stocks is illegal under Ohio state law, and individuals who violate local ordinances regulating their use could face serious consequences.

Table: Bump Stock Regulations in Ohio

RegulationDescription
Federal LawBanned the sale, manufacture, and possession of bump stocks
Ohio State LawRegulates the use of bump stocks, prohibits the possession of firearms modified to fire in a fully automatic manner
Local OrdinancesVaries by city and county, some prohibit the use of bump stocks, others require registration

Key Takeaways

  • Bump stocks are not explicitly banned by Ohio state law, but their use is heavily regulated
  • The federal government has banned the sale, manufacture, and possession of bump stocks
  • Individuals who already own bump stocks are allowed to keep them, but they are prohibited from transferring or selling them
  • The use of bump stocks is illegal under Ohio state law, and individuals who violate local ordinances regulating their use could face serious consequences

Additional Resources

  • Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.15: Use of firearms to commit a felony
  • Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.16: Possession of firearms modified to fire in a fully automatic manner
  • Fix NICS Act: Federal law banning the sale, manufacture, and possession of bump stocks

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