Permitless Concealed Carry In FL During Emergency Evacuations Is Signed Into Law

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — Governor Rick Scott signed 44 bills into law Thursday afternoon, one of which will allow Florida residents to carry concealed firearms –without a permit– during the event of an emergency evacuation for 48 hours. The 48-hour period may be extended per the governor.

SB 290 — Carrying a Concealed Weapon or a Concealed Firearm – This bill allows a concealed weapon or firearm to be carried for 48 hours during a mandatory evacuation order declared during a state of emergency.

The bill (SB 290), which the Florida House approved by a 86-26 vote back in April, was drafted as a response to Hurricane Katrina when many gun owners faced charges after they took their firearms with them when fleeing their homes.