Baton Rouge, LA – Louisiana has joined the ranks of states adopting constitutional carry laws, allowing individuals to carry concealed firearms without a permit. This new status, effective as of today, positions Louisiana as the 28th state in the nation to implement such legislation.
Under the terms of the new law, residents can now carry concealed weapons without undergoing the formerly mandatory training sessions or obtaining a permit. While this measure enhances the freedom of gun owners, it also raises concerns about the potential for untrained individuals carrying firearms in public spaces.
Christopher Woosley, a firearms instructor with Precision Firearms, expressed mixed feelings about the change. “The freedom to carry a firearm without a permit comes with significant responsibilities. Without mandatory training, we might see crucial safety protocols overlooked,” Woosley explained.
To address potential concerns about safety and liability, Louisiana lawmakers, led by Sen. Blake Miguez, have incorporated certain incentives for gun owners to still obtain a concealed carry permit. One notable feature of the new law, articulated in Senate Bill 2 during a special crime session and known as Act 2, grants civil immunity to permit holders who use their firearms lawfully in self-defense situations.
Sen. Miguez elaborated on the benefits of this incentivization, “The bill was designed to not only uphold the rights of gun owners but to encourage responsible gun ownership. For those who choose to secure a concealed carry permit, the law now provides an added layer of protection against civil suits in self-defense scenarios, as long as they are not grossly negligent.”
Despite the civil protections offered by Louisiana’s new legislation, gun owners are reminded that the immunity applies only to interactions with the direct assailant or their family, not any potential bystanders or collateral damage. This law also does not provide immunity in cases where firearm use is deemed negligent or unlawful.
Additionally, another change accompanying the new constitutional carry law allows individuals to conceal carry in restaurants that serve alcohol, though still prohibiting carrying in bars. Woosly noted, “Concealed carry in restaurants isn’t new to permit holders, and historically, we’ve seen responsible behavior from those legally carrying in these venues.”
Residents interested in the specifics of where and how they can legally carry concealed weapons in Louisiana can visit the state police’s official website for guidance and detailed regulations.