Lafayette Police talks about permit less concealed carry law

LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – Two weeks remain until the permit less concealed carry gun law takes effect on July 4th.

Lafayette police are firmly engaged in discussions about it. They say just follow the law. "This helps to keep everyone safe. all you have to do is just let us know."

Lafayette Police Assistant Public Information Officer Corporal Ashley Wood confirms the law requires people to disclose if they have a firearm when dealing with law enforcement in an official capacity. "You shall notify them that you do have a firearm concealed on your person. You shall submit to a pat down and allow them to temporarily disarm you if they need to," Cpl. Wood stated.

There are certain places where a firearm is not permitted, whether it's concealed or in the open.  "You cannot carry in bars, you cannot carry into casinos, any government building or school zones. Still the same. No school buses. Not within a thousand feet of a school property. If you are in a parade or a demonstration, you are not permitted to carry a firearm."

No firearms are allowed on federal or state property.  A business can deny entry and service to an armed customer. The same rule goes for a public or private area designated as a Firearm Free Zone. "Private citizens are still allowed to not allow people on their property if they have a gun," Wood added.

Cpl. Wood says if in a vehicle, keep your hands on the steering wheel and wait for instructions. Let the officer know there's a firearm and its location. "If you're exiting a vehicle and have your hands in front of you, make sure the officer can see. Don't make any fast movements. Let the officer know where it is. That's that is the biggest thing is communication," Wood said.

Also, if an officer has reason to believe a person is under the influence that officer can temporarily take possession of your gun.

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