In the wake of a tragic shooting at Florida State University, the Florida Senate appears unlikely to proceed with a proposed measure that would permit individuals under 21 to purchase rifles and other long guns. The Florida House had previously approved the repeal of a law restricting gun purchases for those aged 18-20, setting the stage for a potential change in legislation.
However, the proposal’s fate in the Florida Senate seemed uncertain, with Senate President Ben Albritton initially undecided on whether to advance the vote. The recent incident, where a gunman claimed two lives and injured six others on the university campus, has further diminished the likelihood of the measure proceeding.
House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell of Tampa has expressed optimism that the Senate will not move forward with the bill, emphasizing the need for more stringent gun control. She advocates for common-sense gun laws that aim to enhance community safety, lamenting the Republican majority’s reluctance to consider such reforms.
Another piece of legislation, which would have allowed students to carry concealed firearms on college campuses, failed last month when it did not receive approval from the Senate criminal justice committee. The corresponding House bill was never brought before a committee for consideration.