Florida Passes Bill Allowing Concealed Carry Without Permit

The Republican-controlled Florida Legislature has passed a bill allowing gun owners to carry guns without a state permit, fulfilling a campaign promise by Governor Ron DeSantis. The legislation has been criticised by Democrats, who called it a step back after Florida enacted several gun restrictions in the immediate aftermath of the 2018 Parkland massacre. The new law, which takes effect on July 1, does not end the permitting program but instead makes it optional. Supporters of gun rights have criticised DeSantis for not going further and allowing people to carry guns openly.