TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A Florida House committee has approved a bill that would extend carry-and-conceal privileges to all Florida gun owners when a state of emergency is declared, regardless of whether or not they have been issued a permit.The legislation is designed to allow citizens to take their firearms with them when forced to leave their homes due to hurricanes or other evacuation-related emergencies. The governor must declare a state of emergency for the provision to be activated.
Many Floridians bring all of the valuables they can carry when forced to vacate their homes. Weather can destroy the residence and the valuables inside, or looters may become a problem during a chaotic period.
Felons are not covered by the legislation.
The bill now moves to the House Judiciary committee.
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press.
