Pro-Second Amendment Measures Take Effect Today in Indiana

Indiana residents will start enjoying expanded gun rights beginning July 1, as the new amendments to the concealed carry laws take place. Republican representatives Jim Lucas and Ben Smaltz sponsored House Bill 1284 during the last legislative session, which Gov. Eric Holcomb signed the bill in April.

The new legislation will allow residents of Indiana to carry firearms in a church compound even if it is located within a school ground. The only exemption is if the owner of the compound has a different firearm policy. Religious leaders will no longer be tied to the state’s restrictions in deciding whether people can carry in church.

CCW permits will also be free of charge. The free permit will last for five years. The lifetime permit however will still have a fee.

The same act gives gun owners the right to use their firearms in self-defense without fear of unnecessary lawsuits from justified cases of self-defense. Many victims are always victimized by gun control laws that persecute them for defending their lives.

The measure will award attorney fees for victims who are unfairly prosecuted for using their firearms in defense. When cleared, most individuals are unable to recover their costs despite having been the actual victims of the crime. Unnecessary lawsuits after self-defense cause the victims to suffer twice and be punished for stopping criminals.

CCW applicants will also register to vote while applying for their licenses at the police stations. This provision will ensure more participation in elections, thus ensuring more gun owners vote to protect their constitutional rights.