Louisiana: Critical Personal Protection Legislation for Domestic Violence Victims Goes Into Effect Today

Today, August 1, 2016, House Bill 1155 goes into effect in The Pelican State.

Sponsored by state Representative Valarie Hodges (R-Denham Springs), HB 1155 provides expedited, temporary concealed carry permits for domestic violence victims who have obtained permanent protective orders against their abusers.  Following a background check, the Louisiana State Police will issue carry permits that are valid for 45 days. Prior to the expiration of the 45-day temporary permit, the temporary permittee must satisfy the regular concealed carry training requirements to become eligible for a standard five-year carry permit. 

HB 1155 recognizes that the most time-consuming part of the permit application process can be identifying a firearms instructor, scheduling a class and completing the requisite coursework -- time that victims of domestic violence often don't have.

Thank you to NRA members and Second Amendment supporters who contacted their lawmakers in support of this legislation.  Also, thank you to bill sponsor Rep. Valarie Hodges and Governor Jon Bel Edwards for signing the bill into law.