Campus firearm ban stays despite new permitless carry law

A version of this story previously ran in the University Press, a student news organization covering Florida Atlantic University.

Since the enactment of HB 543 on July 1, there has been considerable uncertainty surrounding the implications of the new permitless gun carry law in Florida. The fact is that the new law doesn’t change who can purchase a firearm, what firearms can be carried, or the three-day waiting period. 

Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 543 into law in April, making Florida the 26th state to not require a concealed weapons license.

“Concealed carry” refers to the possession of a hidden firearm that is legally owned. Before this bill, Florida required individuals to undergo special training and to obtain a license. Prior to the passing of HB 543, Floridians needed a concealed weapon permit to carry a hidden firearm, with limited exceptions. After July 1, anyone who already legally owns a gun may carry it concealed without a license. 

The FAU Police Department released a statement on social media explaining what the law changes mean for the campus territory, outlining four crucial points: First, they emphasized that firearms will continue to be prohibited on school premises. Second, carrying a concealed firearm in Florida still requires the same criteria as for a concealed weapon. Third, open carry remains illegal under most circumstances. Lastly, the new law does not change the three-day waiting period or who is eligible to purchase a firearm.

Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office released a podcast interview with Sheriff Ric Bradshaw explaining HB 543 in depth. One of the most important clarifications he made was regarding who can carry a gun.

“The new law does not change who can purchase a firearm or the waiting period to purchase any firearm.

There is still a mandatory three-day waiting period where the Florida Department of Law Enforcement does the background check alongside with the Florida Crime Information Center and the National Crime Information Center,” Bradshaw said. 

To carry a concealed firearm in Florida, one must meet the same criteria required for a concealed weapons permit as outlined in Florida Statute 790.06: the person must be a lawful U.S. citizen and at least 21 years of age without any felony convictions or other disqualifying conditions outlined in the statute.

The change maintains state and federal regulations regarding who can buy a gun including that requiring one to be 21 years of age and to undergo a background check.

Bradshaw also explained that one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding the new law is that people can carry a gun anywhere: “It still remains prohibited to carry [a gun] anywhere outlined in 790.06, including but not limited to schools, any college or university, and government meetings.” 

Even though live-fire training is no longer required, experts encourage Floridians to receive proper training for safety purposes. 

The bill now makes gun training a personal responsibility rather than a legal one.

Private businesses and property owners may still prohibit guns. They will also be prohibited at bars, courthouses, schools, sporting events, and airports. Carrying a firearm in such areas can result in charges, fines, or arrests.

“Even though it’s permitless carry, the same places that were off limits before are off limits on July 1,” said Tampa International Airport Police Chief Charlie Vazquez at a press conference. 

Despite the law change, permits are still available for those who may want to carry concealed weapons in states with which Florida has reciprocity agreements.