Red Flag Laws Popular With Gun Owners, Despite DeSantis' Repeal Push

Gov. Ron DeSantis recently indicated he's in support of revoking Florida's red flag law despite a recent study showing widespread support by gun owners for the measure in America.

Conducted by nonpartisan, nonprofit 97Percent, the study found that 72% of gun owners support red flag laws, also known as Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs). 97Percent also found the measure has over 50% support in every state in the country, including Florida.

The organization said its mission is to "reduce gun deaths by including gun owners in the solutions." DeSantis has said the policy infringes on the rights of law-abiding gun owners.

In addition, 97Percent found the measure is supported in ruby-red West Virginia and right-leaning North Carolina. Colorado and Michigan, with numerous Second Amendment Sanctuary counties, also back red flag laws.

Florida's red flag law was passed after the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas mass shooting in Parkland. The law was signed by then-Republican Gov. Rick Scott weeks after the shooting, not Ron DeSantis.

Specifically, the law gives the court authority to order someone to surrender their firearms because they pose a risk to themselves or others.

97Percent said red flag measures have been shown to "reduce gun suicides and prevent mass shootings." The study added the measure was a proactive approach to gun safety while still respecting the rights of citizens under the Second Amendment (2A).

The findings were calculated from 5,100 registered voters who identified as gun owners in late 2024. The study took into account demographic, political, and geographic variables, as well as attitudes toward red flag laws across different communities.