Sen. Husted backs bill to expand law enforcement concealed-carry rights

WASHINGTON – Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) joined the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) Reform Act, a bill that would expand the concealed-carry rights of qualified law enforcement officers. Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) leads the bill in the U.S. Senate.

“Our law enforcement officers are highly trained and trusted professionals who we rely on to keep our communities safe. They put their lives on the line every day to serve and protect, and it’s only right that they have the tools they need to continue that service—whether they are on duty, off duty or retired,” said Husted.

LEOSA was enacted in 2004 and allows qualified active and retired law enforcement to carry concealed firearms across U.S. state and jurisdictional lines. This federal law overrides most local and state restrictions. As of right now, LEOSA does not allow law enforcement to carry firearms in areas governed by federal law or regulation. The LEOSA Reform Act would amend the original bill to expand law enforcement carrying rights.

Statements of support:

“This common-sense officer safety bill is a priority for the FOP and makes technical changes to the Law Enforcement Officers’ Safety Act (LEOSA) to ensure that no officer will inadvertently put themselves in legal jeopardy. This bill would clarify that the original statute allows qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to carry concealed firearms in the same venues as civilian concealed carry permit holders. The bill also extends the exemption to magazine capacity and would allow qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to access services in U.S. Post Offices, Social Security Administration offices, Veterans Affairs offices, and other Federal facilities without disarming or securing their firearm elsewhere. It would also allow States to decide to extend the period between training certifications for qualified retired law enforcement officers from 12 months to 36 months. This legislation would help keep qualified active and retired officers safe, and we offer our sincerest thanks for your vote in favor of this legislation,” said Patrick Yoes, National President, National Fraternal Order of Police.

“On behalf of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, I want to extend our sincere gratitude to Senator Kennedy for reintroducing the LEOSA Reform Act. This legislation is a critical step in ensuring that law enforcement officers who have served their country honorably are able to protect themselves and their families after they retire. The LEOSA Reform Act will correct long-standing barriers, ensuring retired officers can carry concealed weapons across state lines without unnecessary restrictions. This law is not just about enhancing officer safety; it’s about honoring those who have dedicated their careers to safeguarding our communities. We urge Congress to pass this important legislation and stand with those who have stood for justice,” said Mathew Silverman, National President of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association.

“While the purpose of LEOSA has always been clear, several actions at the federal, state, and local level have prevented its proper implementation and altered or watered-down key provisions of the Act. The SBA is grateful for Sen. Kennedy’s continued leadership on the ‘LEOSA Reform Act’ to effectuate Congress’ original intent in passing LEOSA in 2004,” said Vincent Vallelong, President of the NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association.

“With the rise in targeted violence against law enforcement officers and violent crimes in our communities, allowing all qualified officers and retirees, who have sworn to serve and protect our communities, to be armed in accordance with LEOSA would allow them to respond more efficiently and effectively in emergencies for the safety of themselves and those around them. The LEOSA Reform Act will go a long way to ensuring all qualified off-duty and retired officers across the country can legally carry their firearm under the law. NAPO thanks Senator Kennedy for his leadership and stands with him in support of this important legislation,” said Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations.

“This legislation prioritizes safety in our communities by empowering active and retired law enforcement officers to continue to protect citizens in areas where criminals are known to victimize innocent lives who are otherwise left defenseless. The LEOSA Reform Act enables those individuals we already trust with our safety to be able to continue to provide that service without being encumbered by well-intentioned, but misguided laws. Criminals, by definition, have no respect for the law. This commonsense legislation removes barriers for those who enforce the law. Handcuffs belong on criminals, not law enforcement who are working to protect their communities. NSSF is grateful to Senator John Kennedy for his leadership to improve safety in our communities,” said Lawrence G. Keane, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, National Shooting Sports Foundation.

“The Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) applauds Senator Kennedy for his leadership on the LEOSA Reform Act. This vital legislation allows qualified retired and active law enforcement officers to carry firearms across state lines and in public spaces such as national parks, school zones, and other public properties. For law enforcement officers, the ability to carry a firearm across state lines and in public spaces ensures their continued ability to protect and respond effectively, enhancing safety for both officers and our communities,” said Megan Noland, Executive Director of the MCSA.

The LEOSA Reform Act would expand the original bill by allowing qualified officers to carry their concealed firearms in the following locations:

• state, local and private property otherwise open to the public;

• national parks;

• certain federal public access facilities; and

• school zones.

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