Man with concealed carry permit application and pistol gun firearm Courtesy: Shutterstock – Photo by ja-images
The new “constitutional carry” law that Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law earlier this year is scheduled to go into effect on July 1.
Previously punishable as a third-degree crime, the bill (HB 543) now permits some Floridians to carry a concealed weapon or handgun without a concealed weapon license.
What’s new?
The new legislation defines a concealed weapon as “a handgun, electronic weapon or device, tear gas gun, knife, or billie”—a short wooden club that is frequently carried by law officers.
For residents to be eligible for constitutional carry, they must fulfill two conditions:
Prior to carrying a concealed firearm, a person must have a valid form of identification with them at all times and be prepared to provide it to police upon request. Second, they must adhere to any restrictions on the concealment of weapons in specific areas.
Although the foregoing requirements must be met, residents are exempt from providing their fingerprints or undergoing a background check.
Florida individuals who are 18 years of age or older may also carry a concealed weapon inside a private vehicle without a license if the weapon is “securely encased or is otherwise not readily accessible for immediate use,” according to the law.
Holders of active concealed weapon permits
Residents of Florida who already possess a concealed weapon license are no longer required to carry that license when carrying a concealed weapon, but they must still carry a valid form of identification.
Non-residents of Florida
If a non-resident of Florida is 21 years of age or older, possesses a current license to carry a concealed weapon or firearm granted by their state of residency, and is a citizen of the United States, they are permitted to carry a hidden weapon in Florida.
When it comes to carrying a hidden weapon or firearm, nonresidents must abide by the same rules and regulations as Floridians who have a concealed weapon license.
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Born and raised in South Florida, Krystal is a recent graduate from the University of Miami with professional writing experience at the collegiate and national news outlet levels. She’s a foodie who loves all things travel, the beach, & visiting new places throughout Florida.