Ohio Suppressor, SBR Owners Still Face Felony Risk Despite Federal Win

Ohio gun owners aren't out of the woods yet on suppressors, SBRs, and SBSs, even with a federal court win and the ATF standing down on NFA registration. State law hasn't caught up, and that gap could still mean felony charges.

Key points

• Federal win, state problem: Gun Owners of America reports that despite its August 5 court victory and the ATF's October 9 nationwide nonenforcement announcement on NFA registration, Ohio Revised Code Section 2923.17 still labels suppressors, SBRs, and SBSs as "dangerous ordnance."
• Felony exposure remains: Without a valid exemption, which gun owners typically secured through NFA registration, Ohio residents possessing these items could still face felony prosecution under state law.
• SB 214 only covers suppressors: Senator Kyle Koehler's bill, introduced in June 2025 and passed 31-1 in the Senate, predates GOA's court win and doesn't address SBRs or SBSs.
• Amendments are ready: GOA's attorneys have drafted language to close the gap for all three item types, and the bill is currently sitting in the House Public Safety Committee.
• Narrow timeline: With Ohio lawmakers back in session in November, GOA is urging gun owners to contact their House representatives before this General Assembly ends.

Quick take

Federal victories don't automatically erase state statutes, and Ohio is a clean example of that lag. If you own or want to own a suppressor, SBR, or SBS in Ohio, this bill's scope matters more than the federal headlines right now.

Read the full story: gunowners.org