Legislation that would prohibit some juvenile offenders from possessing firearms until they are 24 years old is nearing final legislative passage. It passed in the House on a 59-39 vote. Kenner Representative Debbie Villio told the House that Florida has a similar law, but Gretna Representative Joe Marino believes the bill is unconstitutional.
“I’m not convinced that because Florida does it that it’s a good idea,” said Marino.
“I understand you are not convinced, but I’m certainly comfortable in that belief,” said Villio.
Marino says since juvenile offenders are adjudicated by a judge and not convicted by a jury, Louisiana law does not allow the state to prohibit gun ownership once they turn 18.
“I’m not advocating for juveniles to be able to carry guns, I’m just saying this is not legal, this is not something we can do and even though it’s for a good intention we still can not do this,” said Marino.
But Villio says it does not matter if a juvenile offender is adjudicated by a judge or convicted by a jury, the state has the right to pass a law to prohibit gun ownership for those under the 24. And she calls it a common-sense approach in trying to reduce gun violence among young adults.
“And provides protection to the public,” said Villio.
The bill heads back to the Senate to see if the upper chamber agrees with changes made to the bill by the House.
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