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Florida Senate Passes 'Constitutional Carry' Bill

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  Published in Business and Finance on Thursday, March 26th 2026 at 20:56 GMT by KIRO-TV
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Tallahassee, FL - March 27th, 2026 - Florida is on the verge of significantly altering its gun laws, as Senate Bill 118, which would allow individuals to carry concealed firearms without a permit, passed the Senate today with a 27-13 vote. The bill already cleared the House last month and is now awaiting signature from Governor Ron DeSantis, who is widely expected to approve it, making Florida the latest state to adopt so-called "Constitutional Carry." The law is slated to take effect on July 1st.

This legislation represents a major shift in Florida's approach to firearms regulation. Currently, Floridians seeking to carry a concealed weapon must complete a training course, undergo a background check, and obtain a concealed carry permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. SB 118 eliminates these requirements for individuals legally allowed to own a firearm. Proponents argue this move affirms Second Amendment rights and removes unnecessary hurdles for law-abiding citizens.

Representative Burrell Gill, a Republican from Lehigh Acres, hailed the bill's passage as "a victory for Second Amendment rights," echoing the sentiments of many conservative lawmakers and gun rights advocates who believe the right to bear arms should not be subject to government permission. The National Rifle Association (NRA) and other gun rights groups have actively lobbied for the bill, framing it as a restoration of constitutional freedoms.

However, the bill has faced staunch opposition from Democrats and some law enforcement officials who express concerns about public safety. Representative Kevin Chambliss, a Democrat from Orlando, warned that the legislation will "make our communities less safe," citing concerns voiced by law enforcement officers across the state. Opponents fear that the removal of training and background check requirements could lead to an increase in gun violence and make it more difficult for law enforcement to identify potential threats.

The debate over SB 118 reflects a broader national trend. Over the past several years, a growing number of states have adopted Constitutional Carry laws. Currently, more than 25 states allow permitless carry, arguing that the Second Amendment already guarantees the right to bear arms and that permits are an infringement upon that right. These states include Texas, Arizona, Georgia, and Ohio.

What are the potential impacts of Florida's new law?

The implications of SB 118 are multi-faceted. Here's a breakdown of potential consequences:

• Increased Concealed Carry: The most immediate impact is expected to be a significant increase in the number of individuals carrying concealed firearms. Without the requirements of a permit, more law-abiding citizens will likely choose to exercise their right to self-defense.
• Strain on Law Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies express concern that identifying individuals who are legally allowed to carry firearms will become more challenging. Currently, the permit system provides a readily available database for officers to check during encounters.
• Potential for Increased Gun Violence: Critics argue that the bill could lead to an increase in gun violence, particularly in public spaces. However, proponents counter that criminals will always find ways to obtain firearms, and that responsible gun owners will not be deterred by the lack of a permit requirement.
• Impact on Training: The removal of mandatory training raises questions about the proficiency and safety of concealed carry holders. While individuals are still legally responsible for knowing and abiding by Florida's gun laws, the absence of formal training could lead to accidental shootings or improper handling of firearms.
• Tourism and Perception: Florida is a major tourist destination, and the new law could influence perceptions of safety among visitors. Some tourists may feel less secure knowing that more people are carrying concealed firearms, while others may view it as a positive sign of self-defense rights.

Looking Ahead:

The passage of SB 118 marks a significant turning point in Florida's gun control landscape. The law's effects will be closely monitored in the coming months and years, as stakeholders assess its impact on public safety and Second Amendment rights. It's likely this legislation will spur further debate over gun laws not only in Florida, but across the nation, as states continue to grapple with balancing individual liberties and collective security. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is expected to issue guidance on how officers should approach encounters with armed individuals following the law's implementation. Further analysis will be needed to understand the long-term effects of this policy shift on crime rates and public safety within the state.