John Bel Edwards on Gun Control

	John Bel Edwards on Gun Control

Allow concealed carry in houses of worship

HB334: New law removes the prior law requirement that the congregation be informed that the church, synagogue, mosque, or other similar place of worship has authorized the carrying of concealed handguns by a concealed handgun permit holder.

Analysis by WWL TV-4 (May 19, 2020): Louisiana lawmakers are set to discuss a series of gun bills, including one that would allow a person to bring a concealed handgun into a house of worship. HB 334 would allow a concealed handgun permit holder to carry a concealed handgun in a house of worship, if given permission from church leaders.

Legislative Outcome: Passed House 72-24-9 on May/22/20; Passed Senate 23-9-7 on May/29/20; Signed by Governor John Bel Edwards on Jun/11/20.

Source: WWL TV-4 on Louisiana legislative voting records HB334 , Jun 11, 2020

We need to do a better job with our background checks

While Mr. Edwards is a supporter of the Second Amendment and a lifelong hunter (he makes a point of telling me that all the guns he owns are for hunting), he believes "that there ought to be sensible, reasonable restrictions in some areas. For example, I know that we need to do a better job with our background checks. The overwhelming majority of gun owners are responsible, law-abiding people. And so that makes it a difficult dilemma. I've come down as a strong supporter of the Second Amendment. But I'm not somebody who just believes that there shouldn't be any regulation. That's not where I am on that issue." Source: America Magazine on 2019 Louisiana gubernatorial race , Dec 14, 2018

I support gun rights, unlike national Democrats

Vitter went out of his way to tie state Rep. John Bel Edwards, the only major Democrat in the race, to President Barack Obama. Edwards responded that he differs from national Democrats on major issues, including his opposition to abortion and his support for gun rights. Edwards also confirmed to Vitter that he voted for Obama for president and then added, "but I have never voted for David Vitter." The small studio audience laughed. Source: Baton Rouge Advocate on 2015 Louisiana Gubernatorial debate , Oct 1, 2015

Maintain restrictions & records of individuals and guns

Reauthorize the ban on the sale or transfer of semi-automatic guns, except those used for hunting.
Ease federal restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
Allow citizens to carry concealed guns.
Require background checks on gun sales between private citizens at gun shows.
Require a license for gun possession.
Edwards adds, "We must preserve the 2nd Amendment rights, but also maintain records of individuals and guns for a small period of time."

Source: 2006 State Congressional National Political Awareness Test , Nov 1, 2006

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