Local lawmaker talks about gun laws

After today's tragedy in Newtown, Conn., some people are questioning the role of gun control in our communities.

   
But in the Nov. 6 election, Louisiana voters passed a law that strongly reaffirms the right to bear arms.  More than 70 percent of Louisiana voters approved Amendment Two.  

The law requires very strict scrutiny be used to determine whether regulations infringe on the right to bear arms. In addition, the amendment eliminates the constitutional language that specifically allows the legislature to regulate concealed weapons.

  
Such strict scrutiny sets the bar extremely high for any legislation concerning guns.

However, many gun enthusiasts want and believe in sensible restrictions and for local lawmakers who supported it, having guns ins a right and a choice that shouldn't be confused with tragedies when people are at fault.

State Rep. Jeff Thompson spoke with NBC 6 News about the amendment.    

Controversy over the amendment continues because places such as churches and schools fear the new bill will bring challenges of their rules to ban guns from their property.

However, according to the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections, under the law you still need a permit to carry a concealed gun. And places like government buildings airports, churches, and schools are considered gun-free zones.

So far, there hasn't been a clear to push to remove this precedent from the existing law.