FPC Pushes Back on Louisiana’s Refusal to Issue Carry Permits to 18–20 Year Olds

The Firearms Policy Coalition has filed a federal lawsuit against the state of Louisiana, challenging the state’s prohibition on issuing concealed handgun permits to adults ages 18 to 20.

Under federal law, you must be 21 to purchase a handgun from a dealer. But adults 18 and older may legally possess and carry one, including firearms that were gifted or passed down. Louisiana’s constitutional carry law also applies at 18.

FPC argues that despite constitutional carry, some adults still need a permit. In their press release, they note:

“Federal law separately generally prohibits firearm possession on or within 1,000 feet of an elementary or secondary school unless the person has a carry license issued by the state where the school is located. But Louisiana prohibits adults under 21 from obtaining a handgun carry permit.”

The case, Pool v. Hodges, was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, along with a motion for summary judgment seeking a swift ruling against the ban.

This issue isn’t new. In constitutional carry states across the country, 18–20‑year‑olds often face the same dilemma. Some states, including Idaho, issue provisional permits to adults under 21 specifically to address federal Gun‑Free School Zone restrictions.

FPC also cites multiple court decisions recognizing 18‑year‑olds as part of “the people” protected by the Second Amendment. Because of that, the organization argues Louisiana’s permit ban is unconstitutional.