Senate Bill No. 277, introduced by Senator Edmonds, amends the existing law regarding the illegal carrying of weapons in Louisiana. The bill provides exceptions for certain state officials, allowing them to carry concealed weapons if they are qualified annually in the use of firearms by the Council on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.). The list of officials who can carry concealed weapons now includes designated assistants of the governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, treasurer, commissioner of agriculture and forestry, and commissioner of insurance.

Additionally, the bill expands the exceptions for carrying weapons in the state capitol building. Previously, only members of the legislature and the attorney general with his security detail were permitted to carry weapons in the capitol. The new provisions allow the governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, treasurer, and their designated staff members to carry concealed weapons in the capitol, provided they meet the annual qualification requirements. This legislation is set to take effect on August 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB277 Original: 14:95(H)(1)