A controversial bill in the state Legislature regarding gun-carrying laws is moving forward and possibly paving the way for fewer firearm restrictions.
After tremendous support in the Senate, the bill, SB 303, also made its way through the House of Representatives’ Criminal Justice Committee on Wednesday, passing with a 9-5 vote.
The bill grabbed state and national headlines in April because of its intention to protect the absolute right to bear arms throughout Louisiana.
The bill is backed by the National Rifle Association and was recently endorsed by Gov. Bobby Jindal.
But opposition has been strong from dissenters who think the potential law will make it difficult for institutions like churches and schools to ban guns from their premises. The law would require “compelling government interest” for those institutions to restrict guns on their premises.
Under current Louisiana laws, public and private institutions have that right.
Chancellor Michael Martin and the Board of Regents have expressed concern about guns on campus becoming a reality.
The bill will move to the House floor next, and if it continues forward, the possibility of a new law will be left up to Louisiana voters during November elections.
 
____ Contact Brian Sibille at [email protected]