Angie Craig: “Mr. President, Senators Campbell, Leahy, Reid and I have offered as an amendment to S. 1805 the ``Law Enforcement…”

“Mr. President, Senators Campbell, Leahy, Reid and I have offered as an amendment to S. 1805 the ``Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act of 2003'' which was favorably reported out of the Judiciary Committee with strong bi-partisan support during last session. This amendment, which permits qualified current and retired law enforcement officers to carry a concealed firearm in any jurisdiction, will help protect the American public, our Nation's officers, and their families. I note that this bill has the overwhelming support of the Fraternal Order of Police and other law enforcement associations, which have vigorously worked in support of this measure. The amendment allows qualified law enforcement officers and retired officers to carry, with appropriate identification, a concealed firearm that has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce regardless of State or local laws. Importantly, this legislation does not supersede any State law that permits private persons to prohibit or restrict the possession of firearms on private property or any State law that prohibits possession on State or local government properties, installations, buildings, bases or parks.”