Louisiana Senate Bill SB152

Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/10
• Refer: 3/29/10

Caption

Enacts the Louisiana Firearms Freedom Act.

Impact

The bill could significantly shift the regulatory landscape for firearms within Louisiana, enabling local manufacturers to produce and sell firearms without adhering to federal regulations regarding their commerce. By declaring that basic materials used for manufacturing are not subject to federal regulation, SB152 aims to promote local commerce and the gun manufacturing sector. The ramifications could extend to how federal laws interact with state regulations, potentially leading to legal disputes over jurisdiction.

Summary

Senate Bill 152, known as the Louisiana Firearms Freedom Act, establishes that firearms, accessories, and ammunition manufactured in Louisiana and remaining within the state are exempt from federal regulation under interstate commerce laws. The bill emphasizes the state's rights as outlined by the Tenth Amendment, asserting that matters related to firearms should be governed by state law rather than federal oversight. This legislative intent is rooted in the belief that issues of firearms have not been delegated to the federal government and are thus reserved for the states, particularly Louisiana.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB152 appears to be divisive, reflecting the broader national debate on gun rights and regulations. Proponents of the bill, often aligned with Second Amendment advocates, view it as a necessary measure to uphold state sovereignty and personal freedoms. Conversely, critics argue that this approach undermines the effectiveness of federal regulations designed to ensure public safety and may conflict with existing legal frameworks governing firearms in the United States.

Contention

A notable contention within the bill is its assertion that once firearms and ammunition are manufactured and remain in Louisiana, they do not fall under federal purview. This stance challenges existing interpretations of the Commerce Clause and raises questions about how such laws would be enforced. Moreover, the provisions that exempt certain firearms from regulation could lead to confusion regarding compliance with both state and federal laws, potentially impacting what constitutes legal manufacturing and sale of firearms in Louisiana.