On July 4, 2024, Louisiana joins 27 other states when the new “Permitless Concealed Carry” law becomes effective. Employers face the challenge of adjusting to a new environment where individuals aged 18 and above can legally possess a concealed firearm.
Here are 5 suggestions for employers to successfully navigate the new permit-less concealed carry law:
EMPLOYER LEGAL OBLIGATIONS AND EMPLOYEE RIGHTS
Employers need to understand their obligations under ⸹292.1. The new law upholds that employees have the right to transport and store firearms in their privately owned vehicles on workplace premises as long as the vehicle is locked. It also states that employers have a right to have a workplace policy requiring any firearms located within an employee’s car must be concealed from view or within a locked case.
Caveat: the law states that if the employer does not allow an employee to store a firearm in a locked vehicle on employer’s property, the employer is obligated to provide temporary storage for employee firearms within the workplace premises.
IMPLEMENTING CLEAR WORKPLACE POLICIES
With the new permit-less carry law, employers must create workplace policies regarding firearms that clearly state what the employer will allow regarding firearms on business property. The policy should be in compliance with ⸹292.1 and should contain vehicle storage requirements that are in conformity with firearm-free zones found in §95.6 regarding schools, restaurants and bars.
EDUCATING EMPLOYEES ON FIREARM-FREE ZONES
As defined by §95.6 firearm-free zones include prohibitions of firearms on school campuses, within one thousand feet of school campuses, and in school buses as well as prohibiting firearms on the premises of businesses that serve alcohol with defined exceptions. Employers should have employee training, employee handbooks and signage that clearly communicate lawful firearm-free zones where applicable.
PRIORITIZING SAFETY IN WORKPLACE CULTURE
Best practice tip: employers should foster a workplace culture of safety and respect. While not a legal requirement, employers might consider offering information on safety courses and legal obligations regarding firearms.
STAY INFORMED REGARDING CURRENT LAWS
Like with any new law that affects businesses, employers should stay up to date on the latest concealed carry information.
The new permit-less carry in Louisiana is a significant change for employers and they should implement clear policies that are properly communicated to employees.
