Louisiana Gun Owners Can Now Conceal Their Weapons Without a Permit | KTVE

BASTROP, Louisiana (KTVE/KARD) – Louisiana's new law that would allow people to carry a concealed handgun without a permit is set to go into effect tomorrow. NBC 10's Joel Massey tells us more about what that means for gun owners.

Republicans in the state have been pushing for permit-free concealed carry for years, and during Gov. Jeff Landry's special session on crime, the GOP passed the bill, and then Landry signed it.

Louisiana becomes the 28th^th State that allows people to carry a concealed firearm without a permit, but it is only one of the few states where the law applies to people as young as 18.

Hunter Simmons of Simmons Sporting Goods explains why the new measure qualifies as constitutional gun control.

“Previously, with concealed carry, you had to pay $200 every now and then, so we feel like that wasn't necessary and that means we shouldn't have to pay to exercise our constitutional right.”

Hunter Simmons, Simmons Sporting Goods, Bastrop, Louisiana.

People no longer need to be fingerprinted or undergo firearms training, as they once did. Simmons says it still helps to have proper training.

“I think anyone who picks up a firearm should take concealed carry training. Those classes are always very helpful and I think everyone should take training to make sure they are safe.”

Although it is now legal to carry a concealed weapon in Louisiana, people should remember that when traveling to other states, their laws still apply.

Simmons says ultimately it's about protecting yourself and those you love.

“Criminals don't follow the law anyway, so this allows law-abiding citizens the right to protect themselves without breaking the law and to protect themselves from those who are going to break the law anyway.”

Those who legally own a gun would still not be allowed to carry it in certain places such as schools, churches, police stations, courthouses and the Capitol.