2025 August Newsletter 
Editor's Report
Restoring your Right to Possess after a Conviction
One of the most common questions we receive from Members and prospective Members is, "When I was younger I did something stupid and was convicted of a non-violent felony. How do I get my Second Amendment Rights back?"
In Louisiana, individuals who have been prohibited from possessing firearms due to certain convictions may be able to restore their rights through a few key legal processes. It's important to understand the complexities of both state and federal law, as they interact in this area
.
Expungement:
- How it Works: In Louisiana, certain felony convictions may be expunged from an individual's record, according to the Collateral Consequences Resource Center. This involves filing papers with a Louisiana state court and petitioning for the expungement of eligible felony arrest, conviction, and prison records.
- Eligibility: Generally, non-violent and non-sexual felony convictions are eligible for expungement if 10 years have passed since the completion of the sentence (including any probation or parole) and there have been no other felony convictions during that period.
- Federal Impact: Historically, expungement alone didn't automatically restore firearm rights under federal law. However, recent changes to Louisiana law (effective August 2016) were designed to address the disparity between state and federal law, and it is anticipated that expungement may lift the federal prohibition for a narrow band of prior felons who meet specific criteria (non-violent, non-sexual conviction, expungement granted, and 10 years have passed since completion of sentence). This is still a developing area of law and its effectiveness in restoring federal gun rights is not yet definitively determined.
Gubernatorial Pardon:
- How it Works: A Governor's pardon is a more certain method for restoring federal gun rights in Louisiana. This type of pardon expressly restores all rights and returns the individual to the position they held as if they had never been convicted.
- Process: Pardons are granted on a very limited basis, and appeals must be made directly to the Louisiana Board of Pardons and Parole.
- Note: "First-offender pardons" are different and do not restore gun rights.
Important Considerations:
- Federal Law: It's crucial to understand that federal law generally prohibits individuals convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year from possessing firearms. Unlike Louisiana law, there is no automatic restoration period under federal law.
- The 10-Year Rule: Louisiana law provides that certain felony convictions prohibit firearm possession for 10 years after sentence completion. After this period, it is not a criminal offense under Louisiana state law to possess a firearm. However, this does not automatically grant federal permission.
- Consult with an Attorney: Due to the complexity of the laws and the potential for federal prosecution, it is highly recommended to consult with a Louisiana criminal defense attorney who specializes in firearm rights restoration. They can assess your specific situation, provide guidance, and help you navigate the process.
Federal Considerations:
Since 1968, federal law provided a pathway for federal firearms rights restoration, which up until 1993, ATF regularly granted. Unfortunately, in 1992, Congress passed the first of many appropriation riders that prohibited the use of any money appropriated to ATF for use in conducting federal firearms relief determinations.
On July 18, 2025 a proposed Department of Justice rights restoration rule was submitted to allow a process for firearms rights restoration to begin. This proposed rule making, combined with the Attorney General’s interim rule rescinding the delegation of authority to ATF to conduct these determinations, finally provides a process for many eligible nonviolent offenders to have their rights restored.
The Department of Justice estimates that one million applicants are expected to take advantage of this new pathway back to the Second Amendment in the first year.
As stated in the proposed rule, “This rule making reflects the Department’s commitment to the Second Amendment as an indispensable safeguard of security and liberty and a policy decision that the Department must find a way to both advance public safety and ensure that the rights of the people enshrined in the Constitution are not infringed.”
More Information
Louisiana Expungement & Advocacy Center
Louisiana Restoration of Rights Project
Stories from the Field
Louisiana Black Bear Hunting Lottery to Open July 28
The following article was lifted directly from the LDWF website. The original may be found here.
The Louisiana Black Bear Hunting Lottery will open to state hunters July 28 and run through Aug. 28, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced. The hunt, administered by LDWF, will be held in Louisiana Black Bear Management Areas 1, 2 and 4 from Dec. 6-Dec. 21 with 26 permits issued, an increase from the 11 permits issued last year.
Bear Area specific population estimates and vital rate data were used to determine the number of bear harvest permits to be issued. There will be eight permits issued in Bear Management Area 1, three permits in Bear Management Area 2, and 15 permits, including a Secretary’s permit, in Bear Management Area 4. Cubs and females with cubs are not legal to harvest. A cub is defined as any bear less than or equal to 75 pounds.
Hunts will be restricted to properly licensed Louisiana residents by lottery. All successful applicants for the hunt will be required to attend a LDWF bear hunter training course.
The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission passed a Notice of Intent (NOI) in March to authorize the 2025 Louisiana Black Bear hunt.
Lottery applications are available only on the LDWF website here. Those interested in applying should update or create their customer details similar to purchasing a license and then submit an application. Possession of a valid black bear hunting license is required prior to applying for the WMA and the general Black Bear Lotteries. A $50 non-refundable application fee will be charged to each applicant. All applicants will be notified of their results via email as well as here.
Bear harvest permits will consist of three types: Wildlife Management Area (WMA), Private Landowner, and General. For instructions to apply go to Black Bear Hunting Lottery | Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Successful applicants will be required to attend an LDWF bear hunter training course on either Oct. 18, Oct. 24 or Oct. 30 prior to hunting. Individuals not attending one of these courses may be disqualified and forfeit their bear hunting permit.
For more information on the lottery application process, contact David Hayden at 318-487-5353 or [email protected]. For more information on the Louisiana black bear and this year’s hunt, contact John Hanks at 318-343-4044 or [email protected].
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has released its 2025-2026 Hunting & WMA Regulations.
Eyes on the Anti-Gunners
Firearm and Self-Defense Laws of our Neighboring States
Thankfully, those who would take away your enumerated Civil Right to own and bear arms have been quiet so far this summer. So, we thought we would use this space to remind you of the gun laws of our neighboring states.
Louisiana Firearms Laws
Magazine Capacity Restrictions |
NO |
Constitutional (Permitless) Carry Allowed |
YES |
Red Flag Laws |
NO |
Carry in Alcohol Establishments Allowed |
YES |
Open Carry Allowed |
YES |
No Weapons Signs Enforced by Law |
NO |
NFA Weapons Allowed |
YES |
Duty to Retreat |
NO |
Duty to Inform Law Enforcement |
YES |
"Universal" Background Checks Required |
NO |
Texas Firearms Laws
Magazine Capacity Restrictions |
NO |
Constitutional (Permitless) Carry Allowed |
YES |
Red Flag Laws |
NO |
Carry in Alcohol Establishments Allowed |
YES |
Open Carry Allowed |
YES |
No Weapons Signs Enforced by Law |
YES |
NFA Weapons Allowed |
YES |
Duty to Retreat |
NO |
Duty to Inform Law Enforcement |
YES, Quasi Duty |
"Universal" Background Checks Required |
NO |
Mississippi Firearms Laws
Magazine Capacity Restrictions |
NO |
Constitutional (Permitless) Carry Allowed |
YES |
Red Flag Laws |
NO |
Carry in Alcohol Establishments Allowed |
YES |
Open Carry Allowed |
YES |
No Weapons Signs Enforced by Law |
YES |
NFA Weapons Allowed |
YES |
Duty to Retreat |
NO |
Duty to Inform Law Enforcement |
YES, Quasi Duty |
"Universal" Background Checks Required |
NO |
Arkansas Firearms Laws
Magazine Capacity Restrictions |
NO |
Constitutional (Permitless) Carry Allowed |
YES |
Red Flag Laws |
NO |
Carry in Alcohol Establishments Allowed |
YES |
Open Carry Allowed |
YES |
No Weapons Signs Enforced by Law |
YES |
NFA Weapons Allowed |
RESTRICTED |
Duty to Retreat |
NO |
Duty to Inform Law Enforcement |
YES |
"Universal" Background Checks Required |
NO |
Legislative Update
President Trump Signs the One Big, Beautiful Bill
What does this mean for your Gun Rights?
With the passage of the One Big, Beautiful Bill (OBBB) and the signing by President Trump on July 4, 2025, many gun owners are left confused by what changes have occurred for silencers, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and short-barreled shotguns (SBSs). Read on and we will help you understand.
The original intent of the Bill, as passed by the House of Representatives, was to both remove the excise tax ($200) for the purchase of silencers, SBRs, and SBSs AND to remove the necessity of registering same with the BATFE as required by the National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA).
After the OBBB was passed by the House, it was sent to the Senate for their consideration. The Senate has different rules than the House, including the ability for Senators in the minority party to filibuster to delay or block a vote on a bill or other measure by extending debate. A filibuster can be ended by a cloture vote, which requires 60 senators to agree to end debate. The current US Senate comprises 53 Republicans, 45 Democrats, and two Independents, making it all but impossible for a cloture vote to be successful.
To avoid the possibility of a filibuster, the provisions in the OBBB had to be tax related. Remember, the OBBB was a Budget Reconciliation Bill passed by Congress that focused on tax and spending policies. A Senate parliamentarian ruled that the provisions that would have removed the necessity of registering silencers, SBRs, and SBSs as required by the NFA were not tax related, and, if kept in the OBBB, would have made it possible for the Senate to invoke the filibuster. Removing those provisions from the OBBB prevented Senators from being able to filibuster the bill. The vote in the Senate was 50 Yays and 50 Nays, requiring Vice President Vance to break the tie and pass the OBBB.
The passage of the OBBB eliminates the $200 excise tax on silencers SBRs, SBSs and “Any Other Weapons.” However, the need to register and go through the extensive, lengthy, and burdensome background checks required by the NFA are still in place.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), the American Suppressor Association, the National Rifle Association, and the Firearms Policy Coalition issued a joint statement indicating their intention to challenge the remaining registration requirements for the affected arms under the NFA as unconstitutional.
“When President Trump signs the One Big Beautiful Bill – which will eliminate the excise tax on suppressors, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and AOWs – he will have delivered the biggest blow to the National Firearms Act since its passage nearly a century ago. We thank President Trump for his leadership and every member of Congress who fought for law-abiding gun owners throughout the reconciliation process.
By eliminating the excise tax on these NFA items, the OBBB will not only lift the heavy burden of an unconstitutional tax from the backs of hard-working Americans, it will also serve as a critical step toward our ultimate goal of dismantling the NFA once and for all. But there is much work yet to be done.
While we will continue to fight for the total legislative elimination of the NFA, our organizations are proud to stand together in a new strategic lawsuit to challenge the constitutionality of the NFA in Federal Court.”
“The NFA is nothing more than a tax scheme which has imposed an unconstitutional burden on Americans since 1934,” said SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut. “The registration of these items was only justified as the means to ensure taxes on them had been paid. With the One Big, Beautiful Bill zeroing out the tax for silencers and short barreled firearms, the registration scheme serves no other purpose than to create an unlawful barrier to keep people from exercising their Second Amendment rights. Our intention with this new lawsuit is to completely remove these barriers.”
“SAF has been fighting for more than 50 years to remove unnecessary burdens to our constitutional freedoms, and we welcome the opportunity to fight for the further dismantling of the NFA in court,” said SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. “The reforms in the One Big, Beautiful Bill represent the biggest blow to the NFA since its inception, and we fully support its complete repeal. Just like we’ve done for more than five decades, SAF will continue to fight so all Americans can have the freedom to exercise their Second Amendment rights for generations to come.”
Your LSA will look for opportunities to partner with this coalition and to offer our support to protect your Rights.
If you would like to help fund this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strike at the heart of the unconstitutional National Firearms Act, consider a tax-deductible contribution to the Second Amendment Foundation.
News from the LSA
Louisiana Shooting Association Partners with FocusPoint International to Enhance Members Safety
Slidell, LA. – July 15, 2025 –The Louisiana Shooting Association (LSA) today announced a new partnership with FocusPoint International (FPI), a global leader in critical incident management, coordinating on average 15,000 rescues annually. This collaboration provides Louisiana Shooting Association members with exclusive, discounted access to FocusPoint’s Overwatch x RescueTM (OxR) Plan, a global emergency response subscription built for those who venture where cell service stops—from remote hunting blinds to long-range shooting ranges and backcountry expeditions. Powered by a proprietary SaaS platform and integrated with satellite-enabled devices, OxR delivers real-time SOS support wherever satellite coverage is available. A portion of each subscription purchased will also directly support the association's initiatives.
OxR provides a critical safety net for LSA Members, whether they are in the remote wetlands of Louisiana or traveling internationally. The service is designed to provide seamless, 24/7 coordination and financial coverage for a wide range of emergencies, eliminating the stress of unexpected costs and complex claims processes.
"We are thrilled to partner with the Louisiana Shooting Association to provide their members with the peace of mind to explore with confidence," said Greg Pearson, Founder and CEO of FocusPoint International.
"Outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers are often in unpredictable environments far from home. OxR ensures that if the unexpected happens, a dedicated team of experts is standing by to manage the crisis from start to finish, covering the costs and logistical hurdles so our members can focus on a safe return. For LSA Members glassing ridge lines, packing into deep country, or competing at distant ranges, OxR ensures you’re never truly alone,” added Pearson.
Key benefits of the OxR subscription include:
- Expert Global SOS Response: 24/7 multilingual emergency assistance from crisis response centers staffed by former military, first responders, and law enforcement personnel.
- Comprehensive Emergency Support: OxR provides around-the-clock emergency assistance, covering medical evacuations to the nearest appropriate facility, search and rescue coordination, repatriation to a home hospital of record (including commercial flights with a medical escort), visitation by a family member/friend if hospitalized for longer than 3 days, return of dependent child, and assistance during safety-related incidents, such as natural disasters, terrorism events, civil unrest and more.
- Financial Protection: Full financial coverage for search and rescue operations, medical evacuations, and other coordinated emergency services with no deductibles, activity or height restrictions, claims, or monetary limits.
- Support for Up to Three Devices: OxR supports any device that can send and receive SMS via Wi-Fi, cellular or satellite networks, now including Garmin devices that connect to Garmin Messenger or Garmin Earthmate apps, iPhones with satellite messaging capabilities (in the U.S.,Canada and Mexico), and the ZOLEO Satellite Communicator. Subscribers can link up to three devices per account, ensuring continuous coverage even if one device fails.
"This partnership is a game-changer for our members," said Jay Hunt, Director of the Louisiana Shooting Association.
"Our community travels the globe in pursuit of adventure, and their safety is our top priority. Offering a comprehensive yet affordable service like OxR not only enhances member safety but also provides a meaningful way to support our association's mission. It’s a win-win that provides unparalleled protection and strengthens our community," added Hunt.
Louisiana Shooting Association members can learn more and subscribe to Overwatch x Rescue at a discounted rate by visiting overwatchxrescue.com and using the association-specific code LASA10 at checkout.
About Overwatch x Rescue
Overwatch x RescueTM (OxR) is a SOS subscription service designed for outdoor enthusiasts seeking confidence and peace of mind while exploring. Offering 24/7 live rescue coordination, OxR minimizes—and often eliminates—the financial and logistical stress of rescue operations beyond traditional mobile network coverage, ensuring coverage no matter where the adventure leads.
The Overwatch x Rescue plan provides unmatched flexibility, with no altitude, or activity restrictions, ensuring full coverage of coordinated emergency services. OxR’s team of highly trained experts is always prepared to coordinate everything from search and rescue operations to medical evacuations, allowing adventurers to focus on their journey—not the risks.
With over 15,000 rescues coordinated in 220+ countries and territories, Overwatch x Rescue has saved adventurers millions in medical and rescue costs. Backed by veteran leadership, an unwavering commitment to safety, and strategic partnerships with satellite technology innovators and the global response apparatus responsible for carrying out rescues, Overwatch x Rescue delivers seamless, reliable support—empowering adventurers to explore with confidence and peace of mind.
For more information, visit www.overwatchxrescue.com or follow us on social media @overwatchxrescue
Garand Raffle for Junior Shooters
Get your 2025 M1 Garand Raffle Tickets!
Tickets for the 2025 M1 Garand Raffle to Support Junior Shooting programs in the State are now available. The drawing will be held October 18, 2025. Winner need not be present to win.
All donations stay here in Louisiana and are spent solely on Junior Shooting programs.
Future Events
The LSA maintains a calendar of events that may be of interest to gun owners, shooting competitors, and friends of the Second Amendment. To see a list of events, visit our Meeting/Events Information page.
Northshore Friends of NRA Event
August 2, 2025 | 5:30 PM
American Legion Post 16
20231 Ronald Reagan Hwy
Covington, LA
Join, Renew, or Donate
As you are no doubt aware, the LSA has a new enterprise system for maintaining our membership files and records. If you are confused on how to join or renew, follow this simple checklist below.
- If you are a current member (or a member who has expired for less than 30 days), you can renew your membership here. You will log into your account and pay your dues.
- If your membership has lapsed by more than 30 days, you cannot log into the members areas to pay your dues. You must go through the same process as someone who is joining the LSA for the first time. To do that, click here and fill out the form. This is inconvenient, but it is a security feature so that non-members do not have access to the members area of the website. Sorry.
- If you want to join the LSA for the first time, click here. An annual membership is only $15 and your support helps to protect your Second Amendment Rights here in Louisiana.
- If you wonder if your membership has lapsed or is current, try logging into your account here. If you can't log in, you have probably been moved to the non-member section. You can also shoot me an email and I can confirm your information for you.
If you would like to donate to the LSA, please click here.
If you would like to donate to the Junior Shooting Fund, please click here.
