The U.S. Constitution gives Americans the right to bear arms, but a new law gives Ohioans the right to conceal those firearms.

Ohio lawmakers passed the revised concealed carry bill in January, which Gov. Bob Taft signed into law. People can file applications starting today at sheriff's offices in the county in which they live or an adjacent county.

In part because it is a new law, Lawrence County Sheriff Tim Sexton said he expects a significant number of applications in the first few weeks.

"The criminal element of our society seems to have their guns and uses them to commit crimes," Sexton said. "So, I am certainly satisfied that we have a concealed carry law now in Ohio."

Before seeking a license, applicants must complete 12 hours of training, including two hours on firing range and a written and physical test by a certified trainer. Instructors can be found at the Ohio Attorney General's Web site: www.ag.state.oh.us or by contacting the sheriff's office.

In Lawrence County,

at least five instructors are certified to teach the course that typically costs a $100 a person plus ammunition. Dr. Jim Milleson is certified through the National Rifle Association. Ron Kettel, Jim Howard, Mark Majher and Jerry Leach are certified through the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission.

Capt. Leach of the Ironton Police Department teaches the course through Collins Career Center. He and Howard have already completed two sessions for approximately 50 people.

"We have had considerable interest," Leach said. "We do a very unscientific poll in each class. The predominate reason we have heard is just for personal protection.

"I am a firm believer in the Second Amendment. I believe if you are a law-abiding, honest citizen you have the right to protect yourself. Obviously, for us in law enforcement, it will create some headaches because it is new and will take a while to get everyone on the same page. I don't foresee any real trouble."

Sheriff Sexton has sat in on several classes. He said he is satisfied with the quality of instruction.

"Most of the people in the classes are people who have handled firearms all of their lives and hunted," the sheriff said. "I feel confident that these are good, law-abiding citizens and we certainly have the right to protect our property and our lives."

The sheriff's office is required to issue licenses within 45 days of receipt of a qualified application, but hopefully the turnaround will be two to three weeks, Sexton said. Applicants will undergo a thorough background check and anyone who has domestic violence or drug arrest or conviction or other criminal charges will be refused.

In addition to the costs for the course, a license will cost $45 - $25 will be kept locally to offset costs such as the time needed for the checks and the $8,200 in equipment that was needed for the new service. The remaining $15 will go to the state for the fingerprint check and $5 for administration fees, Sexton said.

People must carry their licenses with them. Weapons will still not be permitted in schools, government offices and other places that have signs that forbid it.