The following is a video transcript.
HELLO SUMMER!
School’s out, the vacation time you’ve stocked up is burning a hole in your pocket, and friends and family are making plans to enjoy the nice weather. Before you head to a swimming pool, beach, lake, or park, make sure you do your homework, especially if your plans will take you outside of Missouri. Remember, every state has different laws, and you don’t want to get in trouble over a simple mistake.
PRIVATE PROPERTY PROHIBITION
Now, let’s look at some common mistakes when it comes to carrying a gun while having fun in the sun. Water parks, summer concerts, and outdoor festivals can be fun family getaways, but these events are usually located on private property that are lawfully entitled to prohibit firearms. If you’re given effective notice at the entrance, or while you’re within one of these locations, you must leave the area and secure your firearm before returning.
CITED FOR TRESPASSING
When it comes to public locations like rivers, lakes, or beaches, you’re generally allowed to carry your firearm with you if you remain in that public location. Remember if you accidentally carry into a prohibited place, and you’re a concealed carry permit holder, you’re not committing a crime. If you’re asked to leave and you refuse, you can be cited for trespass with a maximum $100 fine for the first offense.
NATIONAL PARK BUILDINGS ARE PROHIBITED
The next area we receive questions about is carrying in parks. All these areas are considered public places under the law, and you may legally carry your firearm as long as they’re not specifically prohibited. Keep in mind, that you may be prohibited from carrying your firearm into a national park building and facility like the St. Louis Arch grounds.
What if you’re invited to a pool party? Well, if a homeowner personally tells you that they’re uncomfortable with your firearm, even if you’re helping them with the grill, you should respect their wishes and either cut your visit short, or secure your firearm in your vehicle or your home, and then you may return to the party.
For any questions about carrying while having fun in the sun this summer, call U.S. LawShield and ask to speak with your Independent Program Attorney.
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