New Orleans officials have announced a unique approach to address the new Louisiana law that eliminates the need for concealed carry firearm permits. The city plans to designate a police station in the French Quarter as a vocational technical school, therefore outlawing gun possession in the surrounding area, including parts of Bourbon Street. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated that this move aims to give officers more leeway to stop and search individuals suspected of carrying weapons illegally in the Quarter.
While this initiative has been met with skepticism from the state attorney general, the city believes it is a necessary step to maintain public safety in a popular tourist area known for alcohol-fueled revelry. The new law, supported and signed by Republican Governor Jeff Landry, removed the permit requirement for carrying concealed handguns in Louisiana, aligning the state with 28 others with similar laws.
City officials had previously lobbied for exemptions for New Orleans or specific neighborhoods like the French Quarter, but lawmakers did not comply. This prompted officials to find creative solutions to address potential challenges posed by an increase in guns in high-traffic areas. Despite criticism and delays in enforcement, the city remains committed to implementing measures that comply with state law while safeguarding public safety.
As the law takes effect this week, the city’s decision to reclassify the police station as a school has sparked debate and legal challenges. Nevertheless, New Orleans officials are determined to find innovative solutions to address the changing landscape of gun laws in the state.
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