DeSantis pushes lawmakers to pass permitless carry law in 2023

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WFLA) — Gov. Ron DeSantis is urging lawmakers to pass legislation that would change Florida law to allow gun owners to carry a gun in public without a permit.

A major change to Florida’s gun laws looks all but certain in the coming legislative session as high-ranking lawmakers back the governor’s pledge to make them happen.

Florida law currently does not require a permit to buy or own a gun, but it does require gun owners to have a concealed weapons permit to carry the firearm in public.

The bill governor DeSantis is expecting from the GOP-led legislature would change that. Allowing people to carry guns without a concealed weapons permit.

House minority leader Fentrice Driskell predicts changes to the law before March’s regular legislative session.

“I’m very concerned about this potential legislation because I do think it would make our communities less safe,” Driskell said. “It wouldn’t surprise me if we saw a special session on this, prior to the regular session.”

With a supermajority, Republican lawmakers have the numbers to push through legislation that would change Florida law to allow residents to carry concealed guns without a permit.

Many think DeSantis will make a bid for president, meaning if he wants to get this done, expect it sooner rather than later. As his run would require him to resign — unless Florida lawmakers alter the law which is something they’ve said they are open to doing.

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