Bill to allow guns in public schools hits major setback

Prospects are dim for a contentious bill that would allow designated select individuals to carry guns in Florida public schools.

The Senate Committee on Pre-K-12 Education declined to vote on the bill this week. It’s one of the committees the bill was required to pass to reach the Senate floor, and it won’t meet again, potentially dooming the bill.

SB 180 would allow school districts to designate individuals with law enforcement or military experience, concealed weapons permits and other training to carry guns in schools. Committee Chairman John Legg, a Republican from Trinity, said he objects to what he called deputizing civilians to provide school security.

Bill sponsor Rep. Greg Steube, a Sarasota Republican, said he hopes to find a way to bring the bill up for a Senate floor vote.

Republished with permission of the Associated Press.