An open-carry debate has been taking place in Florida over recent months. However, according to a report in the Miami New Times, the controversial bill that would have allowed Floridians with concealed-carry permits to openly carry handguns has died in a Senate committee recently.
Chair of Judiciary Committee Stops Open-Carry Bill
Senator Miguel Diaz de la Portilla—a Republican who chairs the Florida Senate’s Judiciary —announced that Florida’s proposed open-carry bill is dead. In early February, the open-carry bill passed in a House vote. However, as Chairman of the Committee, Senator Diaz de la Portilla has the power to stop a bill from going to the Senate for a vote.
The Senator also killed another gun bill that would have allowed Floridians to carry guns in airport terminals, and previously blocked a bill that would have allowed people to carry concealed weapons on college campuses.
A Patchwork of National Handgun Carry Rules
When it comes to how and when firearms may be openly carried, the federal government does not play a part in regulation. Most state laws have some restrictions on what firearms—and handguns in particular—may be carried and by whom.
In thirty states, anyone who can own a handgun can carry it openly without a permit. Florida, however, is one of several states where open-carry is banned without a special permit.
Scope of Gun Carry Laws Varies Nationwide
Florida’s proposed open-carry law would have only applied to handguns, and only to handgun owners with concealed-carry permits. Some states have open-carry laws that are more permissive, allowing loaded semi-automatic rifles and shotguns to be carried in public.
Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins, P.A. Represents Injury Victims
The careless use firearms, power tools and motor vehicles cause serious injuries and deaths every day in Florida. If you or someone you love have been injured, you may be eligible for compensation. If you would like to discuss your case, reach out to our team online or give us a call today.