Lafayette Reporter

Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana has reintroduced the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) Reform Act. This bill aims to expand concealed-carry rights for qualified law enforcement officers, both active and retired.

Kennedy emphasized the daily risks faced by law enforcement personnel, stating, “Day in and day out, our brave law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to keep Americans safe—even when they’re retired or off-duty. The LEOSA Reform Act would help empower cops to keep our communities safe by expanding their rights to carry concealed firearms in public places.”

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the original LEOSA of 2004. While the initial act granted qualified officers the right to carry concealed firearms across U.S. states and territories, it included exceptions that limited this right on certain government properties.

Under Kennedy's proposal, these restrictions would be lifted for locations such as state, local, and private properties open to the public; national parks; specific federal facilities; and school zones.

The bill has garnered support from several senators including Rick Scott of Florida, Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi, Pete Ricketts of Nebraska, Bill Hagerty of Tennessee, John Cornyn of Texas, Jim Justice of West Virginia, and Thom Tillis of North Carolina.

Numerous organizations have endorsed the LEOSA Reform Act. Mathew Silverman from the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association expressed gratitude towards Kennedy for addressing barriers that prevent retired officers from carrying concealed weapons across state lines. He remarked that this legislation is crucial not only for officer safety but also as a tribute to those who have dedicated their careers to community protection.

Vincent Vallelong from the NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association noted that previous actions at various governmental levels had diluted key provisions of LEOSA. He praised Kennedy’s efforts in maintaining Congress’ original intent with LEOSA.

Bill Johnson from the National Association of Police Organizations highlighted how allowing all qualified officers to be armed could enhance response efficiency during emergencies. Similarly, Lawrence G. Keane from the National Shooting Sports Foundation supported removing legal barriers for law enforcers.

Megan Noland from Major County Sheriffs of America acknowledged Kennedy’s leadership in enabling officers' ability to carry firearms across state lines and in public spaces like national parks and school zones.

The full text of the bill is available online for review.