Residents in Florida are being advised by gun instructors to become familiar with firearm laws as the state’s long-standing open carry ban is set to be lifted. Understanding these laws is crucial before openly carrying guns.
The state will be on board with law abiding adult citizens carrying their firearms in public.
NRA instructor Joe Yagar demonstrated the similarities between open and concealed carry. Both require individuals to be at least 21, do not require a permit, and cannot be done by anyone with a criminal record. But there’s more to consider.
Yagar stressed, “If you don’t understand the legalities, you could pose a greater risk to the public than providing any benefit.”
He warns what you do the in the gun range is not the same as what you do outside of it.
Attorney General James Uthmeier clarified that law enforcement can still act against individuals who display firearms in a threatening or reckless manner in public spaces.
Jeff Davis trains civilians and law enforcement for the NRA. 8 On Your Side asked Davis about people carrying long guns in public.
“I would then say, ‘What is the practicality of what are you, what are you going to carry that thing for?'” Davis said.
Open or concealed carry will ultimately be a personal choice, but in areas like Pinellas County, where tourism, senior citizens, and youth are predominant, public carrying might remain low.
Davis advised, “Don’t panic if you see a gun in a holster, as this will become common. For gun carriers, prioritize safety by keeping the gun pointed safely and only drawing it when absolutely necessary. Ensure your holster is secure.”
Davis said while it may be a bit of a new world seeing people open carry, civic duties are still in place.
There are still some questions as to how this will be enforced, especially when it comes to businesses that don’t allow guns inside. The attorney general’s office said a person can be charged with armed trespassing for not leaving a business when asked.
