Politics & Government

Guns in Bars: Bad Idea or Perfectly Fine?

Ohio General Assembly passed a bill that would allow guns in bars, but it's not official yet

Guns and alcohol ... Not the best mixed drink on the menu, according to bar owners in Kent.

However, both the Ohio House and Senate have passed bills that would allow permit-holding gun owners to have a gun in places that serve alcohol. Gov. John Kasich has expressed support for this measure but he hasn't made it official law yet.

Kent Patch explored this issue chief and , all of whom oppose the bills.

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Kent Police Chief Michelle Lee told Patch "Alcohol and guns don’t mix. It’s tough because … I’m pro gun. Being a cop you kind of have to be. But on the other hand, it’s not for everybody. I think a lot of these people who go get (concealed-carry) permits, I don’t think they’re all self-defense minded. I think a lot of them it’s sort of a novel thing to do. There’s a variety of reasons I think why people carry guns. But to have more guns in bars and liquor establishments, I just think is not a good idea.”

Vince Fazio, owner of Mugs Brew Pub on Franklin Avenue in Kent, said, "I think it’s ridiculous. First of all, I don’t think you need to carry a gun when you’re in public. But if the law states you can carry a concealed weapon, I’m not going to debate that. However, in the bars you’re selling a mind-altering substance. You should only operate a gun while you have a clear and level head."

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