On April 3, 2023, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 543 into law, dramatically altering the state’s concealed carry regulations. Effective July 1, 2023, Floridians no longer need a government-issued concealed weapon permit. This legislative change, often called "permitless carry," removes the requirement for background checks and firearm training courses previously mandated to carry a concealed weapon.
The attorneys at Carlson, Meissner & Hayslett are here to help you understand your rights under the new law. In this blog, we’ll cover critical changes and concerns, what Senate Bill 1286 has to do with HB 543, and how we can help you navigate this new legal landscape.
What Changes Under HB 543?
Previously, Floridians who wanted to carry a concealed firearm needed to apply for a permit, which involved undergoing a background check and completing a firearm training course. These requirements ensured that people carrying concealed weapons had a basic understanding of firearm safety and had clean criminal records.
However, House Bill 543 eliminates these requirements, allowing any legal firearm owner to carry a concealed weapon without a permit. Proponents of the law argue that it upholds Second Amendment rights by removing unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles for law-abiding citizens. However, critics raise concerns about the potential impact on public safety.
Concerns About Public Safety
One of the primary concerns surrounding the enactment of HB 543 is the increased risk of untrained individuals carrying firearms in public. Here’s why:
- Without mandatory training courses, there is no guarantee that individuals carrying concealed weapons have adequate knowledge of firearm safety or proficiency in handling their weapons
- This lack of training could lead to accidental discharges or other dangerous situations, posing a threat to public safety
Additionally, the removal of background checks raises concerns about individuals with criminal histories carrying concealed firearms. Although the law still prohibits convicted felons and those with certain other disqualifications from carrying firearms, the absence of a permitting process makes it more challenging to enforce these restrictions.
Senate Bill 1286: Returning Seized Weapons
In conjunction with HB 543, Senate Bill 1286 also impacts firearm regulations in Florida. Key details include the following:
- This bill requires law enforcement agencies to return weapons taken from a person after an arrest, provided the weapons are not seized as evidence, within 30 days of the person's release from detention
- The return of these weapons is contingent upon the individual presenting a government-issued photographic ID and passing a criminal history background check
- This provision aims to ensure that law enforcement does not unlawfully withhold firearms from individuals who are legally entitled to possess them
Navigating Florida’s New Legal Landscape with Carlson Meissner & Hayslett
With the implementation of HB 543 and SB 1286, Florida residents must understand their rights and responsibilities regarding firearm possession and concealed carry. While the new laws aim to simplify the process for lawful firearm owners, they also introduce complexities that could have significant legal and safety implications.
If you are concerned about how HB 543 or SB 1286 may affect your rights, the Carlson Meissner & Hayslett team is here to help. Our attorneys deeply understand Florida's firearm laws and have a proven track record of defending clients in complex legal matters. We are committed to upholding your rights and ensuring you receive the best possible legal representation.
Contact us today to schedule a free and confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate the new legal landscape of firearm possession and concealed carry in Florida.
