Threat Level Unknown: Public Opinion and Behavior of Ohio Citizens Concerning Permitless Concealed Carry - Cancelled

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

In 2022, Ohio enacted legislation allowing citizens over 21 and without certain criminal histories (e.g., felonies, domestic violence, drug charges, violent misdemeanors) to carry concealed handguns without permits or training. As research suggests perceived danger and threat varies by race, this legislation raises many concerns. This study distributed a survey experiment to a representative sample of 1,000 Ohioans to examine general opinions regarding the legislation and perceived threat levels in scenarios varying concealed carry conditions. Results indicated that while approximately 36% of Ohioans would vote to support such legislation, 51% of Ohioans were not supportive of permitless concealed carry. Additionally, 52% indicated such legislation makes Ohio unsafe and 54% believed policing would become more difficult. Importantly, Ohioans were more likely to indicate they would contact police to investigate Black individuals carrying concealed weapons than White individuals. Taken together, these findings not only highlight the disjuncture between legislative policy-making and public opinion, but also demonstrate a potential mechanism for increasing disparities in police contact for Black Ohioans, which could promote inequities in other areas of policing (e.g., arrests, use of force).

Authors

• Christopher Dum, Kent State University

• Starr Solomon, Kent State University

• Megan Denny, Kent State University

• Elias Nader, Kent State University