An act relating to storage of firearms in motor 3 vehicles or vessels; creating s. 790.176, F.S.; 4 providing definitions; providing requirements for 5 storage of firearms and ammunition in motor vehicles 6 or vessels; providing criminal penalties; providing an effective date.
Where might these individuals be seeking firearms? My initial guess would be areas displaying signs such as:
Signs for “Gun-Free Zones” often include variations of the following wording:
- “Gun-Free Zone”
- “No Firearms Allowed”
- “Weapons Are Prohibited on These Premises”
- “No Guns Allowed Beyond This Point”
- “The Possession of Firearms or Weapons Is Prohibited”
- “Pursuant to [State Code/Ordinance], Firearms Are Not Allowed Here”
These signs may also include:
- A red circle with a diagonal slash over a gun icon.
- Specific legal references (e.g., a state law or local ordinance).
- Language clarifying exceptions (e.g., “Law Enforcement Personnel Exempt”).
When these signs are displayed, they signal to criminals that they face no immediate danger at this location. Additionally, they create an environment where many firearms must be stored in vehicles, providing criminals with an easy opportunity to steal weapons and act without resistance.
How many firearms are in Florida?
Registered Firearms: As of 2021, Florida had 518,725 registered firearms, ranking second in the nation behind Texas.
statista.com
Household Gun Ownership: Approximately 35.3% of adults in Florida reside in homes with guns.
How many CCW licenses are there in Florida?
As of December 31, 2024, Florida has issued approximately 2.64 million concealed weapon or firearm licenses. [fdacs.gov]
This figure includes both resident and non-resident permits. Notably, Florida was the first state to surpass 2 million concealed carry permits. (usconcealedcarry.com)
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of women obtaining concealed weapons licenses in Florida. As of February 28, 2023, one-third of the license holders are women. (wusf.org)
It’s important to note that Florida enacted a permitless carry law in 2023, allowing legal residents to carry concealed firearms without a permit. Despite this, many residents continue to obtain permits, often to carry in other states with reciprocity agreements. (foxnews.com)
Comparing Crime Rates: CCW Permit Holders vs. Non-Permit Holders
Crime Rates of CCW Permit Holders
- Lower Crime Rates:
- Crime Prevention Research Center (CPRC):
- CCW permit holders are among the most law-abiding citizens in the U.S.
- In 2016, CCW permit holders were reportedly responsible for about 0.007% of all murders nationwide.
- In states like Florida and Texas, permit holders are found to commit crimes (including violent crimes) at significantly lower rates than the general population. For example:
- Florida: Revocation rates for CCW permits due to crimes hover around 0.01%-0.02% annually.
- Texas: Conviction rates for CCW permit holders are about 12 times lower than those of the general population.
- Crime Prevention Research Center (CPRC):
Crime Rates of Non-Permit Holders
- Higher Involvement in Crime:
- The majority of violent crimes, including firearm-related homicides, are committed by individuals who are not licensed to carry.
- Studies have shown that individuals without permits are more likely to obtain firearms illegally and commit crimes at much higher rates.
In my opinion, we should take the following actions:
Remove gun-free zone signage: These signs effectively create open arenas for criminals, signaling where firearms are likely to be present and leaving law-abiding citizens defenseless.
Reduce restrictions for CCW permit holders: Individuals who have been vetted and issued a concealed carry license should face minimal restrictions on where they can carry their firearms. By allowing them to keep their firearms on their person rather than storing them in vehicles or vessels, we could drastically reduce the number of firearms stolen from these locations.
Criminals, by definition, do not abide by our state laws. Restrictive policies do not stop them but instead hinder law-abiding citizens’ constitutional right to bear arms and their ability to protect themselves.
Let’s stand together to protect our freedoms!
Florida Governor’s Office Contact Information:
Phone: (850) 488-7146 to find your Florida representative
Contact Me: About anything, comments on articles, questions you may have, etc.