What Disqualifies You from Owning a Gun in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the possession and ownership of firearms are regulated by state and federal laws. The Louisiana Revised Statutes (R.S.) and the federal Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA) establish the requirements and restrictions for owning a gun in the state. If you have a criminal record, mental health issues, or a history of substance abuse, you may be disqualified from owning a gun in Louisiana.
Federal Disqualifications
The GCA outlines the federal criteria for prohibiting the possession and transfer of firearms. If you are disqualified under federal law, you are not eligible to own a gun in Louisiana. The following are federal disqualifiers:
- Convicted of a felony: You are not eligible to own a gun if you have been convicted of a felony, including violent crimes, drug offenses, and crimes involving the use of a firearm.
- Mental health issues: You are disqualified if you have been adjudicated as mentally defective or have been committed to a mental institution.
- Illegal drug users: You are not eligible to own a gun if you are an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance.
- Undue influence: You are disqualified if you are under indictment for a crime punishable by more than one year of imprisonment or have been convicted of a crime that carries a maximum sentence of more than one year of imprisonment.
- Renunciation of citizenship: You are not eligible to own a gun if you have renounced your U.S. citizenship.
State Disqualifications
In addition to federal disqualifiers, Louisiana has its own set of laws that prohibit the possession and ownership of firearms. If you are disqualified under state law, you are not eligible to own a gun in Louisiana. The following are state disqualifiers:
- Convicted of a crime of violence: You are not eligible to own a gun if you have been convicted of a crime of violence, including aggravated battery, simple battery, and stalking.
- Convicted of a drug offense: You are disqualified if you have been convicted of a drug offense, including possession or distribution of controlled substances.
- Mental health issues: You are not eligible to own a gun if you have been adjudicated as mentally defective or have been committed to a mental institution.
- Domestic abuse: You are disqualified if you have been convicted of domestic abuse or have been ordered to have no contact with the victim.
Additional Disqualifiers
In addition to federal and state disqualifiers, there are other circumstances that may disqualify you from owning a gun in Louisiana. If you are subject to a restraining order or have a history of violence, you may be disqualified from owning a gun. The following are additional disqualifiers:
- Restraining orders: You are not eligible to own a gun if you are subject to a restraining order or have been ordered to have no contact with the victim.
- History of violence: You are disqualified if you have a history of violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
- Substance abuse: You are not eligible to own a gun if you have a history of substance abuse or addiction.
- Mental incompetence: You are disqualified if you have been adjudicated as mentally incompetent or have been committed to a mental institution.
Table: Disqualifiers for Owning a Gun in Louisiana
| Disqualifier | Description |
|---|---|
| Federal Disqualifiers | Convicted of a felony, mental health issues, illegal drug users, undue influence, and renunciation of citizenship |
| State Disqualifiers | Convicted of a crime of violence, convicted of a drug offense, mental health issues, and domestic abuse |
| Additional Disqualifiers | Subject to a restraining order, history of violence, substance abuse, and mental incompetence |
Conclusion
In Louisiana, the possession and ownership of firearms are heavily regulated. If you have a criminal record, mental health issues, or a history of substance abuse, you may be disqualified from owning a gun in Louisiana. It is essential to understand the federal and state laws that govern gun ownership and to consult with a lawyer if you have any questions or concerns. Before attempting to purchase or own a gun in Louisiana, you must ensure that you are not disqualified under federal or state law.
