Florida Bill Expands Concealed Carry to College Campuses

Florida State Senator Randy Fine has introduced Senate Bill 814 (SB 814) to allow concealed carry of firearms on college and university campuses, a move he justified as a response to the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks in Israel. The legislation aims to align campus policies with existing state concealed carry rights, asserting that students should not lose their Second Amendment rights while on campus. Fine specifically criticized universities for not adequately protecting students and linked the proposal to rising antisemitism and concerns over 'Muslim terror advocates' on campuses. The bill includes provisions for designating 'sensitive locations' where firearms could be prohibited during events, requiring a security plan for approval by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Opponents argue that Fine is using fear to promote gun rights, with critics highlighting his prior actions on gun legislation. The bill is set to undergo committee hearings as it moves forward in the legislative process.