COLUMBUS — An Ohio doctors group joined gun-control advocates at a Statehouse rally Wednesday, saying a proposed concealed-weapons law would threaten public health.

        Physicians for Social Responsibility claims most Ohioans don't want a law allowing more people to carry guns, and says it would cause more domestic violence and shootings among children.

        The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Jim Aslanides, R-Coshocton, would permit Ohioans to carry a hidden gun after a background check and proof of firearms training. The bill would repeal a 40-year-old law prohibiting any citizen to carry a concealed weapon.

        Supporters say the proposed law would provide residents a means of protection against crime and would keep weapons out of the hands of felons and the mentally ill.

        But critics argue it would make Ohio a more dangerous place by putting more guns in homes and on the street.

        “The idea that more guns would result in fewer homicides is counterintuitive,” said Jonathan Groner, trauma director of Children's Hospital in Columbus.

        Dr. Groner said those most at risk under the proposal would be women and children, who are most likely to be shot at home by someone they know.

        Medical consultant David Groth, of Blue Ash, said the proposed law would contribute to more violence by encouraging people to take guns into places they shouldn't be allowed, such as a hospital emergency room.

        Kentucky has a concealed carry law that allows citizens who pass a training course to carry concealed deadly weapons anywhere except government buildings. A background check is conducted to weed out convicted felons and the mentally ill.

        Indiana does not require a training course but has the same restrictions as Kentucky.

        In both Kentucky and Indiana, business owners may prohibit weapons from their premises.

Airport tackles runway safety
$1.4B may not be enough
Ohio justices defy convenient labels
UC tuition will rise by 8% in fall
A boost for home buyers
Cities say rules thwart growth
Clinton visits Dayton to accept peace prize
Cops take it where crime happens
Doctors rally against concealed carry
Dulcimer picked as official Ky. instrument
Fair's touchy about animals
Grand jury will hear Lebanon case
Group moves to scrap city's civil service rules
Hospitals won't get Medicaid raise
Kenton teachers get 7% hike
Low-income housing would be controlled
Nature Conservancy buys more land along palisades
No sex indictment against teacher
Ohio PTA award announced
Outside auditor to watch ballpark
Proposal for video slots at racetracks dies in committee
Protester on trial for fest disruption
Officer Roach trial scheduled for Sept. 17
School gets 2nd inspection
Silverton development group launched
United Way pledges other help
Video store bandits use the same script
Welfare reform spending in danger
Worms sicced on Ky.'s coal scars
Kentucky News Briefs
Tristate A.M. Report