Florida is the 26th state to implement a permitless law allowing its residents to carry weapons without a concealed-carry permit. There is an exception for convicted felons and those with injunctions against them. This significant development has sparked debates and discussions among various stakeholders.
Most people agree that this is a step in the right direction for maintaining the right to bear arms. According to residents, the state’s concealed weapon license created a hardship for many vulnerable people who needed firearms for self-defense.
What concerns have residents raised?
As the concealed weapon license goes away, authorities anticipate crime rates to decrease because they believe that knowing anybody could carry a firearm will deter criminals. However, an underlying concern is the expected spike in guns on the streets, which might compromise safety. More people who never submitted to background checks will be able to carry weapons because purchasing a firearm from a federally licensed dealer who requires a background check is no longer compulsory.
What are the key provisions of the new law?
Under the permitless law, individuals who are legally eligible to possess firearms are no longer required to obtain a concealed carry permit to carry firearms in public. However, it is important to note that certain restrictions and regulations still apply, even without the need for a permit. The law stipulates that only individuals 18 years or older can carry firearms without a permit.
But, the permitless law does not alter the existing criteria for firearm eligibility. Individuals must still meet the federal and state requirements for owning and possessing firearms. Additionally, even without a permit, individuals are prohibited from carrying firearms in certain restricted areas, such as schools, government buildings and private properties where firearms are explicitly banned.
The implementation of the permitless law marks a significant change in firearms regulations, allowing most individuals to carry weapons without a concealed-carry permit. While the law has garnered support from proponents of Second Amendment rights, concerns about public safety and potential risks have also been raised and will continue to be voiced.
