Local Answers and Concerns as Constitutional Carry Begins July 1st

By: Corbin Lingenfelter, News Director

Local Sources- Starting on Friday, July 1st, a permit is no longer required to carry a handgun in the state of Indiana.

Constitutional Carry was passed by the state in March 2022. The new law removes the requirement for those who meet certain standards to openly or conceal carry a firearm.

Jasper Police Chief Nathan Schmitt explains the law does not apply to everyone.

“The new carry law eliminated the requirement to have a handgun license issued to you through the state of Indiana. You still have to be eighteen years of age, still have to be a proper person, and not having issues involving mental health where it would prevent you from having a firearm.”

A proper person, according to Chief Schmitt, involves no convictions of domestic battery or felonies.  

While some supporters of the new law see its passage a step up for security, Chief Schmitt explains there are some concerns.

“Our major concern is the fact that were gonna have more people carrying handguns I think in an effort to protect themselves. Many I don’t know are trained with it or efficient with it to safely operate or use that handgun. Also it’s hard for our officers to determine at two-thirty in the morning if a person is a proper person and if they can be carrying that gun. Another thing is we don’t want people to just go out and buy a gun and start carrying it without any training or firearms classes or any range time. When people get into a conflict they might use that as a way to end the conflict or to eliminate an issue, that’s what we’re afraid of. When you bring a gun into a situation it becomes more dangerous for police officers and citizens.”

Schmitt also explains if you are stopped by an officer, how you should interact with them if you are carrying.

“Anytime a police officer deals with a person, whether it’s a traffic stop or on their person, we want the person to tell us there is a firearm or handgun on them and just make us aware of it. They’re not scared, we’re not scared, and that’s been lost in translation. Just keep your hands on the wheel, don’t make any sudden movements towards it, and inform the officer where it is so they know what’s going on.”

Indiana is continuing to offer concealed carry licenses that are free for those who wish to obtain one. If you would like to obtain a license to carry you can apply here.