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Tallahassee, FL - A lawmaker has proposed a bill that would allow people in Florida to carry concealed weapons without a license.
House Speaker Paul Renner proposed the bill, dubbed "constitutional carry," that would allow people in Florida to carry concealed weapons without a license.
The proposal was supported by Republican lawmakers and county sheriffs.
Current law requires a license, which includes a criminal background check, to carry concealed weapons.
Over 2.62 million people had concealed weapons licenses in the state as of December 31st.
The proposed bill, HB 543, will be considered in the legislative session starting March 7th and requires valid ID to be carried at all times while possessing a concealed weapon, but current restrictions on carrying guns in schools and athletic events would remain.
People 21 years of age or older who are not Florida residents can also carry concealed firearms.
The proposal has been met with criticism from Democrats for removing the training requirement for obtaining concealed weapons licenses.
The bill does not affect laws relating to purchasing firearms or allow anyone prohibited from possessing a firearm to carry concealed.
Gun owners are encouraged, but not required, to take firearm safety courses.
Orange County Sheriff John Mina opposes the bill, while Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis and gun-rights groups support it.