Florida Republicans Messed Up BIG TIME

Published on August 8, 2024
Duration: 10:18

This guide details the legal and historical context surrounding Florida's ban on open carry, as presented by Phil Reboli of Gun Owners of America. It covers the recent shift to constitutional carry for concealed firearms, the ongoing prohibition of open carry, and the historical roots of the ban, including its alleged racist origins. The guide also outlines GOA's current lawsuit challenging the ban's constitutionality under the Second and Fourteenth Amendments, citing the Supreme Court's Bruen decision.

Quick Summary

Gun Owners of America (GOA) is challenging Florida's ban on open carry, arguing it violates the Second and Fourteenth Amendments based on the Supreme Court's Bruen decision. Despite Florida's Republican supermajority and recent constitutional carry law for concealed firearms, open carry remains illegal and is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor, a prohibition GOA contends has racist historical roots.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Florida's Unconstitutional Open Carry Ban
  2. 00:21GOA's Annual Convention: GOALS 2024
  3. 00:44Florida's Concealed Carry Law & Open Carry Status
  4. 01:20Open Carry Bans in Republican-Led Florida
  5. 01:46Historical Context of Florida's Open Carry Ban
  6. 02:50GOA's Legislative Efforts for Open Carry
  7. 03:17Opposition from Florida Sheriffs and Republicans
  8. 05:40GOA's Lobbying and Lawsuit for Open Carry
  9. 08:44GOA Files Lawsuit Against Florida's Ban

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of open carry in Florida?

Open carry remains illegal in Florida under most circumstances and is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor. This is despite Florida recently becoming a constitutional carry state for concealed firearms, meaning a permit is no longer required for concealed carry.

Why is Gun Owners of America (GOA) suing Florida?

GOA has filed a lawsuit against Florida, arguing that the state's ban on open carry is unconstitutional and violates the Second and Fourteenth Amendments, citing the Supreme Court's Bruen decision as precedent for historical tradition.

What is the historical basis for Florida's open carry ban?

The ban originated from an 1893 law, which GOA argues was racist and targeted newly freed slaves. Later, Janet Reno, as Assistant State Attorney, influenced its reinstatement by calling it a 'Dodge City loophole'.

What does 'constitutional carry' mean in Florida?

In Florida, 'constitutional carry' currently refers to the ability to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. Open carry, however, is still prohibited under most circumstances.

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