Florida Law Removes Ban on Firearm Restrictions During Emergencies

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill on Wednesday lifting automatic restrictions on firearms and ammunition sales during a declared state of emergency, including during riots and other violent public outbreaks.

Reps. Debbie Mayfield (R-Melbourne) and Monique Miller (R-Palm Bay) sponsored the bill, HB 6025. Sen. Blaise Ingoglia (R-Spring Hill) carried the Senate bill.

“This is a repeal bill and will allow businesses and families to protect themselves when they’re most vulnerable,” Mayfield previously said.

More specifically, a declared state of emergency could occur during a hurricane or other major weather disaster. The state's hurricane season starts on June 1.

Furthermore, the bill repeals a key provision under the old law in a win for Second Amendment advocates. Under HB 6025, none of its language may be interpreted to authorize the seizure, taking, or confiscation of lawfully possessed firearms unless the person is involved in a criminal act.

Sen. Ingoglia previously called language in the Statute "chilling" by having to say law-abiding citizens would not have their firearms confiscated during emergency measures. He also said it probably violates the Second Amendment right to bear arms.

Other lawmakers agreed on the bill's premise, including Sen. Jonathan Martin (R-Fort Myers) during its committee deliberation back in March.

"It makes complete sense. I can't think of a more important time than an individual should have the right to go out and buy a firearm than a time when they feel that their life or their family's life or property is at risk," Martin said.

The bill takes effect immediately.