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Bill

HB 373

Enact the Universal Background Checks Act

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Rachel Baker and 25 co-sponsors

Ohio bill requiring background checks for all firearm purchases, including private sales, to close gap in gun safety screening requirements.

Referred to committee
#crimes #corrections #andlawenforcement #firearms
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Bill Summary · HB 373

Legislative bill overview

HB 373 would require universal background checks for all firearm purchases in Ohio, extending screening requirements beyond current federal law which only mandates checks for licensed dealer sales. The bill applies the background check requirement to private sales and transfers of firearms between individuals.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses a significant gap in Ohio's gun safety framework, as roughly 15-20% of gun sales nationally occur through private transfers without background checks. The measure directly impacts public safety by potentially preventing firearm access for individuals with criminal histories or domestic violence convictions who might otherwise circumvent licensed dealer requirements.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Opponents argue universal background checks on private sales may conflict with Second Amendment rights and create enforcement challenges without a national gun registry
  • Implementation practicality: Questions exist about how private citizens would comply with checks, potential costs, and whether the system has capacity to handle increased screening volume
  • Political divergence: Reflects deep partisan divide—gun safety advocates support expanded checks while gun rights organizations typically oppose restrictions on private transfers as burdensome and ineffective

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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