Louisiana: Senate Approves Three NRA-Backed Bills, Two Important Measures Still Await Consideration

Yesterday, the Louisiana Senate passed the following three NRA-backed bills, which now go to Governor Bobby Jindal (R) for his signature:

House Bill 72, sponsored by state Representative Joe Lopinto (R-Metairie) and state Senator Bob Kostelka (R-Monroe), would clarify that concealed handgun permit holders may possess firearms in restaurants that serve alcohol.  Forty-nine states allow some form of carrying of firearms for personal protection in restaurants and this bill would codify a right that exists under the carry law but is currently in conflict with a separate criminal statute.  The state Senate passed HB 72 by a 37 to 2 vote.

House Bill 1066, sponsored by state Representative Jeff Thompson (R-Bossier City) and state Senator Neil Riser (R-Columbia), makes technical changes to the state concealed carry law which could and should qualify Louisiana permit holders for an exemption from the NICS check when purchasing a firearm from a federal firearm licensed dealer.  Permit holders in 21 other states -- including the neighboring states of Arkansas, Mississippi and Texas -- currently enjoy this exemption.  The state Senate passed HB 1066 by a 31 to 5 vote.

House Bill 1112, sponsored by state Representative Sherman Mack (R-Livingston) and state Senator Dale Erdey (R-Livingston), would create a special prestige NRA license plate.  The state Senate passed HB 1112 unanimously.

Please take a quick moment to thank these bill sponsors for their tireless work on these pro-gun measures by sending them an e-mail:

House Bill 72:
Rep. Joe Lopinto
Sen. Bob Kostelka
 
House Bill 1066:
Rep. Jeff Thompson
Sen. Neil Riser
 
House Bill 1112:
Rep. Sherman Mack
Sen. Dale Erdey

Two NRA-supported bills which would legalize hunting of game animals with sound suppressors are still pending consideration.  House Bill 186, sponsored by state Representative Cameron Henry (R-Metairie), is awaiting final consideration by the full Senate.  Please contact your state Senator and respectfully urge him or her to SUPPORT HB 186.  State Senators can be reached during the week in Baton Rouge by calling (225) 342-2040 or by clicking here to send an e-mail.  Senate Bill 212, sponsored by state Senator Rick Ward (R-Port Allen), will be considered by the full House tomorrow, May 15.  Please contact your state Representative and urge him or her to SUPPORT SB 212.  State Representatives can be reached during the week in Baton Rouge by calling (225) 342-6945 or by clicking here to send an e-mail.