Hinds Today

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi has joined forces with Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana to reintroduce the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) Reform Act, also known as S.679. This proposed legislation aims to expand the concealed-carry rights for qualified law enforcement officers.

The LEOSA Reform Act seeks to amend the original 2004 law that initially granted concealed-carry rights to officers across all U.S. states and territories, irrespective of local laws. The amendment would address exceptions that currently limit these rights on certain government properties.

Senator Hyde-Smith stated, "There’s no need to restrict the ability of qualified, well-trained law enforcement officers from being able to provide another level of protection for our communities." She emphasized that the legislation intends to reduce bureaucratic obstacles regarding concealed-carry rights for police officers.

Senator Kennedy added, "Day in and day out, our brave law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to keep Americans safe—even when they’re retired or off-duty." He believes that expanding these rights will help officers maintain community safety by allowing them more freedom to carry firearms in public places.

If passed, S.679 would enable qualified law enforcement personnel to carry concealed firearms in locations such as state and local properties open to the public, national parks, specific federal facilities with public access, and school zones.

The bill has garnered support from various organizations including the National Association of Police Organizations, National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), National Fraternal Order of Police, and others like Major Cities Chiefs Association and Major County Sheriffs of America.