Concealed Weapons Policy
Concealed Weapons Allowed in Ohio, Not at Cincinnati Children's
As of April 8, 2004, Ohioans can legally carry concealed handguns if they have a proper license. But they can't carry them into Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.
The State of Ohio passed a "concealed carry" law earlier this year. This law permits individuals who meet set criteria to obtain a license to carry a concealed handgun in Ohio.
As a private hospital, Cincinnati Children's has the choice under this law to determine whether or not to allow concealed handguns in our facilities. While we have always had a policy against our employees carrying weapons to the workplace, we have now adopted a strict no-weapons policy for anyone on Cincinnati Children's property.
Who Does This Apply To?
Both the law and the Cincinnati Children's policy apply to employees, medical staff members, patients and families, vendors, volunteers, visitors and any other individuals entering any of our campuses.
Signs are posted at all main entrances stating that concealed weapons are prohibited on our property. Anyone who knowingly violates the posted prohibition or refuses to leave after being informed of the prohibition may be arrested for criminal trespass.
Don't Approach Anyone with a Weapon
If a prohibited weapon is found in the possession of any individual on Cincinnati Children's property, do not address that person. Instead, follow these steps:
- Call Protective Services (security), 513-636-4204. For locations without Protective Services operations, call the local police department.
- Protective Services will turn over the weapon to the local police department.
- The individual can then claim the weapon from the local police department.
