Bill > S0490

This bill modifies Florida's laws regarding concealed carry licensing requirements for certain law enforcement and public safety professionals. The legislation expands the rights of correctional probation officers to carry concealed firearms during off-duty hours, subject to their superior officer's discretion. It revises definitions for "qualified law enforcement officer" and "qualified retired law enforcement officer" to explicitly include correctional probation officers. The bill also updates firearm purchase waiting period exceptions, now defining a "holder of a concealed weapons or concealed firearms license" to include not just traditional licensees, but also law enforcement officers, correctional officers, correctional probation officers, and military servicemembers. Additionally, if a superior officer at the Department of Corrections decides to allow officers under their supervision to carry concealed firearms while off-duty, they must file a statement with the department's governing body. The changes aim to provide more flexibility and clarity for law enforcement and public safety professionals regarding firearm carry and purchase regulations. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.