Dozens of law enforcement officials from around the state gathered in Baton Rouge Thursday to implore lawmakers to not override Governor Edwards’ veto of legislation allowing concealed carry without a permit. Under the bill, those 21 and older who are not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm would be allowed to carry a concealed handgun without needing to demonstrate firearm proficiency and safety knowledge during an eight-hour concealed carry course.
Several sheriffs were in attendance despite the fact that the highly influential Louisiana Sheriffs Association has remained neutral on the topic. One of those sheriffs was Craig Webre of Lafourche who said allowing unlicensed, untrained people to carry concealed firearms in public is a recipe for disaster.
“Constitutional Carry” Bill Headed to the House Floor
A House committee advanced Senate-approved legislation that would do away with the need to get a permit to carry a concealed handgun for those 21 and older and those without a felony record.
The bill is opposed by the Louisiana Chiefs of Police Association, but West Monroe Senator Jay Morris said not all law enforcement are against his bill, including his chief of police.
“Police chief Terrell said restrictions don’t hurt anyone but law-abiding citizens. When you look at it the people who are not going to follow the law are criminals,” said Morris who added his bill is about protecting 2
A House committee advanced Senate-approved legislation that would do away with the need to get a permit to carry a concealed handgun for those 21 and older and those without a felony record.
The bill is opposed by the Louisiana Chiefs of Police Association, but West Monroe Senator Jay Morris said not all law enforcement are against his bill, including his chief of police.
“Police chief Terrell said restrictions don’t hurt anyone but law-abiding citizens. When you look at it the people who are not going to follow the law are criminals,” said Morris who added his bill is about protecting 2
Senate passes concealed carry bill
Morris, Luneau at odds over gun deregulation Caleb Daniel
Photo courtesy of the Louisiana Senate
Sen. Jay Luneau (left) and Sen. Jay Morris, both of whom represent parts of Lincoln Parish, were on opposite sides of Morris’ bill that would allow people to carry a concealed handgun in Louisiana without a permit, so long as they aren’t barred from possessing a weapon by other state or federal laws.
The Louisiana Senate on Tuesday voted in favor of a bill by a local legislator that would allow state residents and visitors to carry a concealed handgun without a permit.