Louisiana Senate Committee Passes Legislation Dealing With Firearms In Gun-Free Areas

A firearm bill facing stiff opposition from law enforcement and others in authority is sailing through the legislature.

By a 6-to-1 vote, the Louisiana Senate Judiciary Committee has approved Senator Neil Riser's proposed constitutional amendment that would make it easier for concealed handgun permit owners to carry firearms in gun-free areas. Guns are currently not allowed in schools, bars and  churches. District attorneys across the state, chiefs of police and education leaders have opposed the bill.

The legislation will be debated on the Senate floor next week. A proposed change in the state Constitution needs a two-thirds approval of the Legislature. If lawmakers approve, the measure will go to voters in the Nov. 6 election.

The language of SB303 reads:

“The right of individuals to acquire, keep, possess, transport, carry, transfer, and use arms for defense of life and liberty, and for all other legitimate purposes is fundamental and shall not be denied or infringed, and any restriction on this right must be subjected to strict scrutiny.”