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.