Permitless carry bill signed by Governor Ron DeSantis

Governor Ron DeSantis has signed Florida’s permitless carry bill into law. This allows guns to be carried almost anywhere without a permit.

Although, guns continue to be prohibited in airports, courthouses, and other government buildings.

As of July 1, 2023, background checks, training, and concealed carry permits won’t be required for Florida gun owners.

“It’s definitely going to remove a big barrier of entry for a lot of people,” Cameron Acorn, the general manager at Shoot Center, said.

“I’m a believer of it. So, yeah, I’m glad it’s passed,” Joe Pavao, a gun owner, said.

To be clear, the new law does not get rid of background checks to buy a gun. But, if you’re legally allowed to buy a weapon, you can carry one in public.

“I would like to see it go across the nation eventually,” Pavao said.

But, Pavao doesn’t think removing training requirements means gun owners should therefore forgo training.

“People still should train because to be comfortable with their guns. The Shoot Center here is perfect for that,” Pavao said.

“Carrying a firearm is a huge responsibility, whether you appreciate that or not,” Acorn said.

Those opposed to the new law fear it will lead to more gun violence and mass shootings. But, Acorn thinks it’s too soon to say for certain.

“But what it will do is that it will almost undoubtedly put more people carrying firearms out in public,” Acorn said.

While a background check and three-day waiting period will still be required to purchase a gun from a licensed dealer, they are not required for private transactions or exchanges of weapons.