A police station in New Orleans’ French Quarter will become a vocational technical school, effectively banning gun possession in the surrounding area due to a new state law eliminating the need for concealed carry firearm permits. Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick announced the measure, which aims to enhance public safety by giving officers more leeway to stop and search individuals suspected of illegally carrying a weapon in the tourist district. The station will fall within a 1,000-foot radius where concealed weapons are prohibited, covering a significant portion of the Quarter, including parts of Bourbon Street.
The move has generated controversy, with the state attorney general expressing doubts about the legality of the plan. Despite criticism, Kirkpatrick defended the decision, emphasizing the importance of using existing laws to address current threats to public safety. The new law, supported by Republican Governor Jeff Landry, makes Louisiana one of the latest states to eliminate the concealed carry permit requirement. Similar laws exist in 28 other states, according to the National Council of State Legislatures.
City officials, including City Council President Helena Moreno, had pushed for exemptions or special considerations for New Orleans, known for its alcohol-fueled revelry, but were ultimately unsuccessful. Despite the backlash and legal challenges, the plan to designate the police station as a school remains in effect, with enforcement scheduled to begin on August 1st, following the expiration of an existing city firearms ordinance. The controversy surrounding this decision highlights the ongoing debate over gun control measures and their impact on public safety in urban areas.
Source
Photo credit apnews.com