As of August 2020, the requirements for carrying a concealed firearm in a church, synagogue, mosque, or other similar places of worship in Louisiana have changed. The previous mandate for specific training and other requirements was repealed during the 2020 legislative session.
Current Law Explained
Under Louisiana law, LA R.S. 40:1379.3 N. (8), you are generally not allowed to carry a concealed firearm in any place of worship that qualifies as a tax-exempt organization under 26 U.S.C. 501. However, there is an important exception to this rule: you may carry a concealed firearm if you have authorization from the person who has authority over the administration of the place of worship.
Key Points:
- Prohibition: Carrying a concealed firearm in places of worship is prohibited unless specific permission is granted.
- Authorization: To legally carry a concealed firearm, you must obtain authorization from the individual with administrative authority over the place of worship. While the law does not dictate it, it would be in the best interest of the permit holder and place of worship to have said permissions documented that the person is allowed to carry inside the place of worship.
- Tax-Exempt Status: The law applies to places of worship that qualify as tax-exempt organizations under federal tax law.
- Other Qualifications: Places of worship may still require training or other qualifications before granting permission. It is up to each entity to decide the criteria for granting such permissions.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out to us. Your safety and responsible gun ownership are our top priorities.
At Bearco Training, we provide specialized training for both armed and unarmed safety teams in places of worship. Our programs are designed to ensure that your safety team is prepared to protect your congregation effectively and responsibly. Contact us today to learn more about our training options.
Stay informed and stay safe.