The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) allows qualified active and retired law enforcement officers to concealed carry a firearm in any jurisdiction across the United States, subject to specific exceptions.
Where Does LEOSA Allow You to Carry a Firearm?
LEOSA, officially known as HR 218, is a federal law that grants certain privileges to eligible law enforcement professionals regarding the carrying of concealed firearms.
Scope of Carry
Under LEOSA, qualified individuals are authorized to carry a concealed firearm in any jurisdiction in the United States. This significant federal law overrides state and local statutes that might otherwise restrict concealed carry, providing a consistent national standard for eligible officers.
Key aspects of LEOSA's carry allowance include:
- Nationwide Coverage: The permission extends across all states, districts, and territories of the United States.
- Supersedes Local Laws: It allows carry regardless of state or local laws that might have stricter regulations or prohibit concealed carry for non-law enforcement individuals.
- Concealed Carry: The authorization specifically pertains to concealed carry, meaning the firearm must not be openly visible.
Who Can Carry Under LEOSA?
LEOSA applies to two main categories of individuals:
- Qualified Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs): These are active duty officers who meet the federal requirements.
- Qualified Retired LEOs (RLEOs): This includes officers who have retired or separated from service, provided they meet specific federal criteria related to their service duration, good standing, and annual qualification with a firearm.
Important Considerations and Exceptions
While LEOSA offers broad authority, it is not without limitations. The law specifies that carry is permitted "with some exceptions." Although the precise exceptions can vary based on specific federal, state, or private property rules, common examples not typically covered by LEOSA include:
- Federal Facilities: Many federal buildings and property may still prohibit firearms.
- Private Property: Owners of private property retain the right to prohibit firearms on their premises.
- Aircraft and Sterile Areas of Airports: Federal regulations typically prohibit firearms on commercial aircraft and within the secure areas of airports.
- Prohibited Persons: Individuals otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm by federal law (e.g., due to a felony conviction or domestic violence restraining order) are not granted rights under LEOSA.
Summary of LEOSA Carry Provisions
The following table summarizes the core provisions of where LEOSA permits carrying a firearm:
| Aspect | LEOSA Provision |
|---|---|
| Who is Authorized? | Qualified Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs) and Qualified Retired LEOs (RLEOs) |
| Where Can They Carry? | Any jurisdiction in the United States (includes all states, districts, and territories) |
| Impact on Local Laws? | Allows carry regardless of state or local laws that might otherwise restrict concealed firearms, providing federal preemption. |
| Method of Carry? | Specifically authorizes concealed carry. |
| Limitations? | Carry is subject to some exceptions, such as certain federal facilities, private property, and other locations where firearms are explicitly prohibited by law or policy. |
LEOSA's primary purpose is to ensure that eligible law enforcement professionals, both active and retired, maintain the ability to protect themselves and others by carrying a concealed firearm across the nation, thus enhancing public safety.
