FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 6, 2024
Washington, D.C. — Today, Gun Owners of America (GOA) and the Gun Owners Foundation filed a federal lawsuit in South Florida, challenging the state’s ban on open carry of firearms. As of today, Florida remains in the very small and anti-gun company of New York, Illinois, and California where open carry is still wholly banned.
Governor Ron DeSantis has previously expressed support for open carry, but unfortunately, the Republican leadership in the legislature in Tallahassee has made quite clear they have no intention of repealing this ban.
Erich Pratt GOA’s Senior Vice President, issued the following statement:
“Florida lawmakers claim to be pro-gun, but year after year, they’ve refused to repeal the 1987 ban on open carry, leaving Floridians in the very anti-gun company of New York, Illinois, and California where this is also prohibited.
“GOA has been left with no choice but to sue the state, especially since GOA’s open carry bill was blocked by the Republican legislative leadership during the 2024 session’s first week.
“This ban has no historical basis and will surely be found unconstitutional under the Bruen precedent. We look forward to making our case and fighting for law-abiding Floridians.”
The lawsuit was first covered by Fox News Digital, where people can read more here.
GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center.
-GOA-
