In some ways it’s hard to believe it was nearly 30 years ago (1987) that the Florida Legislature broke the state-level logjam that was concealed carry. In the interim, Florida has been precisely the laboratory of liberty that the Founders envisioned for “the several states”: All 50 states (40 with “shall issue”/10 with “may issue”) now have some sort of concealed-carry issuance, although complexity remains vexing in a few.
But in the wake of the deadly disarmament of U.S.-based military personnel as recently highlighted in Chattanooga, Tenn., Florida appears ready to take the lead again. While the military still oversees who can carry on its own facilities, Gov. Rick Scott has asked the Department of Agriculture (who oversees permit issuance) to fast-track military applicants. Instead of the usual 90 days, qualified personnel with the proper credentials can receive their permits in just 30 days.
Bravo, Gov. Scott.
