Mayor Urges Ohio Lawmakers to Support Police Officers’ Safety by Opposing HB 422

 

Mayor Michael B. Coleman today urged Ohio legislators to oppose House Bill 422, which would keep police officers from knowing whether drivers stopped for traffic violations are carrying a firearm. Ohio’s concealed carry law requires permit holders to notify law enforcement officials during traffic stops that they are carrying a gun. HB 422 would eliminate that requirement, putting both police officers and motorists at risk.

 

“Our lawmakers have a simple choice: whether to side with the police officers protecting our neighborhoods, streets and highways, or to side with the most extreme elements of the gun lobby,” Mayor Coleman said. “I strongly urge them to protect the safety of our officers and defeat HB 422.”

 

Removing the requirement to notify law enforcement of a handgun in the car would add tension to traffic stops, which are inherently dangerous for officers who never know what they will encounter. HB 422 is opposed by law enforcement organizations such as the Buckeye Sheriffs Association and the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police in addition to 50 mayors from across the state of Ohio.

Gilliam celebrates 91st Birthday at the opening of the Cityscapes exhibit

 

 

 

 

 

 

Harvey Gilliam directs his attention to well-wishers at the opening of Cityscapes Yesteryear on Thursday, Jan. 12, at the King Arts Complex. The occasion also serves as an early birthday celebration for the distinguished artist, who turns 91 on January 17. The Cityscapes exhibit, featuring the watercolors of Gilliam, the photography of Kojo Kamau and the works of artists Leon Page and Roman Johnson, continues through March 3 in the Elijah Pierce Gallery at the arts complex, 867 Mount Vernon Ave.
Photo Courtesy of Flexi-Media, LLC