Florida lawmakers move to let gun owners carry without permit in ‘Constitutional Carry’ bill – By John Kennedy (USA Today) / Jan 30, 2023
TALLAHASSEE – Florida could become the 26th state to allow people to carry concealed loaded guns anywhere without permits under legislation endorsed Monday by House Speaker Paul Renner and the Florida Sheriffs Association.
Dubbed “constitutional carry,” by supporters, the concept behind the bill (HB 543) also has the backing of Gov. Ron DeSantis and Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, R-Naples.
The proposal, however, makes no change in current laws limiting the open display of sidearms or long guns, or so called “open carry” – an expansion some gun advocates want but which has drawn pushback in a state so dependent on tourism.
“Florida led the nation in allowing for concealed carry and that extends today as we remove the government permission slip… to exercise a constitutional right,” said Renner, R-Palm Coast.
