The Ohio Court of Appeals has upheld a ruling that restricts individuals aged 18 to 20 from carrying concealed weapons. This decision, made on September 18, 2026, affects young adults in Ohio and raises questions about their Second Amendment rights. The court affirmed the trial court's judgment against Tywan Byrd, who was convicted of carrying a concealed weapon.
Tywan Byrd, then 19 years old, was indicted on December 18, 2024, for carrying a concealed weapon, a fourth-degree felony under Ohio law. After his motion to dismiss the indictment, claiming it violated his Second Amendment rights, was denied, Byrd entered a no contest plea. He was subsequently found guilty and appealed the trial court's decision, arguing that the court had either committed plain error or abused its discretion in denying his motion.
The case reached the Ohio Court of Appeals after Byrd's conviction in the Lucas County Court of Common Pleas. The primary issue in Byrd's appeal was whether the laws prohibiting concealed carry for individuals aged 18 to 20 were constitutional. Byrd contended that these laws violated his rights under the Second Amendment.
The court ruled that the trial court's decision was correct, stating that the statutes in question do not violate the Second Amendment. Judge Mayle, writing for the court, explained that Ohio law allows individuals under 21 to openly carry firearms, which means the restriction on concealed carry does not infringe on their right to bear arms. The court referenced the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Assn. v. Bruen, which allows states to regulate the manner of carrying firearms as long as open carry is permitted.
“States may lawfully eliminate one kind of public carry—concealed carry—so long as they leave open the option to carry openly,” the court noted. This ruling reinforces the idea that while young adults can possess firearms, they cannot carry them concealed until they reach the age of 21.
The court's ruling has significant implications for young adults in Ohio. It clarifies that while they have the right to own and openly carry firearms, they are still subject to restrictions when it comes to concealed carry. This decision aligns with a growing trend in other jurisdictions that have upheld similar restrictions based on age.
As a result of this ruling, individuals aged 18 to 20 in Ohio will continue to face limitations on their ability to carry concealed firearms. This decision may influence future legislation and legal challenges regarding firearm rights for young adults. The ruling also highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between public safety and individual rights under the Second Amendment.
Looking ahead, Byrd's case could potentially be appealed to the Ohio Supreme Court, especially given the split among Ohio appellate districts regarding the constitutionality of prohibiting concealed carry for young adults. Additionally, related cases may arise as other individuals challenge similar laws in the state. The outcome of these cases could further define the rights of young adults under the Second Amendment.