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Earlier this week, the Florida First District Court of Appeals issued a ruling declaring that Florida’s ban on the open carry...
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Earlier this week, the Florida First District Court of Appeals issued a ruling declaring that Florida’s ban on the open carry of firearms is unconstitutional.
The state has made it clear they do not intend to appeal the decision, and this decision will become the law. With this development, I want to urge common sense and firearm safety within our community.
As a Second Amendment supporter myself, I understand the strong desire many of our citizens feel to own and carry firearms for personal protection as well as sporting endeavors. While our legal framework surrounding concealed carry has expanded in the last few years, removing the need for a concealed weapons permit, and open carry of firearms brings with it additional challenges and public safety concerns.
I encourage everyone who is a firearm owner and intends to carry, whether concealed or open, to become an educated firearm user, understand gun safety, and to be wise in the manner in which they carry and use their firearm. Also, I want to remind you that even with the expansion to open carry, there are still many places that prohibit firearms, whether concealed or open, such as courthouses, and other government buildings, schools and colleges, and many others. Please familiarize yourself with Florida and Federal Laws regarding these places where firearms are prohibited.
Please also understand that any private property owner can prohibit firearms on their property. Whether a private residence or private business. Property owners have the right to dictate whether or not firearms are present on their property. If you bring a firearm to a residence or business, again open or concealed, and you are asked not to bring the firearm in, then you must leave the premises with your firearm. If you do not leave when asked, you may face charges for armed trespass, a felony in the state of Florida.
Again, I urge all of our citizens to use common sense when it comes to firearms, to understand and use good firearm safety, and show respect for fellow citizens and viewpoints. If you have any questions, call us at 763-3117
