Florida’s Open Carry Debate: DeSantis Backs Bill Amid Growing Public Concerns

Gun and bullets on Second Amendment document.

Florida considers open carry legislation, sparking debate between Governor DeSantis and legislators.

At a Glance

Governor Ron DeSantis hints at potential open carry legislation for Florida
Republican supermajority in Florida Legislature shows reluctance towards open carry
Law enforcement and tourism concerns hinder progress of open carry proposals
Florida remains one of few states prohibiting open carry alongside California, Connecticut, and Illinois
Recent permitless concealed carry law signed, effective July 1, 2023

DeSantis Pushes for Open Carry Amid Legislative Hesitation

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signaled his support for open carry legislation, potentially expanding gun rights in the Sunshine State. Despite a Republican supermajority in the state legislature, the proposal has faced unexpected hurdles, highlighting a complex political landscape even within conservative circles.

DeSantis, known for his conservative policies, recently hinted at the possibility of open carry legislation in the upcoming session. “You may get that in this upcoming legislative session. Stay tuned on that,” the Governor stated, as reported by American Military News.

Legislative Roadblocks and Law Enforcement Concerns

Despite the governor’s backing, open carry faces significant opposition within the Florida Legislature. GOP Senate President Ben Albritton has expressed resistance to the idea, citing objections from law enforcement agencies. This stance has frustrated some gun rights advocates who expected smoother sailing for such legislation given the Republican-dominated government.

“Senate President Ben Albritton spit in the face of gun owners after they sent Republicans to Tallahassee with a resounding victory on a pro-gun mandate,” said Luis Valdes of Gun Owners of America, as reported by American Military News.

The reluctance from Republican leadership has left some Second Amendment supporters disappointed, especially following the recent passage of permitless concealed carry legislation.

Permitless Concealed Carry: A Step Towards Expanded Gun Rights

While open carry remains a contentious issue, Florida has made strides in expanding gun rights through permitless concealed carry. Governor DeSantis signed this legislation into law, set to take effect on July 1, 2023. The new law eliminates the need for a concealed weapons license, background checks, and training for concealed carry.

“Constitutional Carry is in the books,” DeSantis declared upon signing the bill, as reported by the Tallahassee Democrat.

This move aligns Florida with a growing number of states adopting permitless carry policies, often referred to as “constitutional carry” by supporters. However, it’s important to note that the law does not change who can legally purchase a firearm, and existing restrictions on gun ownership remain in place.

Public Safety and Tourism Concerns

Opponents of open carry legislation, including some law enforcement officials and gun control advocates, argue that such laws could lead to increased violence and negatively impact Florida’s crucial tourism industry. These concerns have played a significant role in tempering enthusiasm for open carry among some legislators.

“The last thing tourists want to see are neo-Nazis openly carrying rifles at Disney Springs and the streets of Lake Buena Vista. Permitless carry has already cost lives in Florida. Open carry will make it worse,” warned state Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, as reported by American Military News.

As the debate continues, Florida remains one of the few states, alongside California, Connecticut, and Illinois, that prohibits open carry. The ongoing discussions reflect broader national conversations about gun rights and public safety, with Florida’s decisions likely to have significant implications beyond its borders.

Open carry gun law sputters in Florida Legislature, despite backing from DeSantis https://t.co/g9ThWBIQan

— South Florida Sun Sentinel (@SunSentinel) November 30, 2024