NEW ORLEANS, LA – In the wake of a devastating mass shooting outside the Republic NOLA nightclub that left one woman dead and 11 others injured, some local leaders and law enforcement officials are wrongly pointing fingers at Louisiana’s upcoming permitless carry law. This law, which will allow individuals legally entitled to own a firearm to carry it concealed without a permit, has become a scapegoat for deeper societal issues surrounding violence.

The tragic incident, which occurred late Sunday night amid the French Quarter Fest celebrations, has reignited debate over gun laws in Louisiana. Critics argue that the new law, effective July 4, will increase violence. However, this perspective overlooks the crucial fact that criminals, by definition, do not comply with gun laws. The new legislation simply recognizes the rights of law-abiding citizens to protect themselves without the bureaucratic hurdle of obtaining a permit.

During a press conference, New Orleans police Supt. Anne Kirkpatrick and other officials expressed concern that the law would make it harder to control gun violence. Yet, this stance fails to acknowledge that the law will not change the behavior of those intent on committing crimes. The permitless carry law is designed to uphold the Second Amendment rights of citizens, ensuring that they are not unfairly restricted by laws that do not deter criminals.

Furthermore, the assertion that this law will endanger public safety is not supported by evidence. The law stipulates that only those who are legally allowed to own a firearm can carry it concealed, which excludes felons and others prohibited by law. It simply removes the need for a permit, cutting red tape for everyday citizens who wish to exercise their constitutional rights responsibly.

The focus should instead be on effective law enforcement strategies and community engagement to prevent violence, rather than restricting the rights of law-abiding citizens. The real issue at hand is illegal gun use and criminal activities, which will not be addressed by opposing permitless carry.

As we mourn the loss of life and the impact of this senseless act of violence, it is critical to remember that enhancing the ability of citizens to protect themselves legally contributes to public safety. Misguided attempts to link lawful gun ownership with criminal activities only divert attention from the root causes of violence and the effective measures needed to combat it.

The tragedy at Republic NOLA is a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of crime. Rather than restricting the rights of those who follow the law, efforts should be intensified to crack down on illegal activities and ensure that those who commit crimes are held accountable. The upcoming permitless carry law is not the problem; it is a part of ensuring that responsible citizens have the means to defend themselves and their loved ones.