HB 517, the house version of the Open Carry bill, passed by a 10 to 3 (2 abstaining). Next stop, the floor!
From what I’ve read, the overriding contention was that the opposition could not cite a single case where OC was an issue in any other state where it is law. Even Rep Julian (D-Miami) voted in favor.
MIAMI. That’s like the New York City of Florida.
Now, the votes were as follows
Y Baxley Y Glorioso Y Julien Y Pilon Y Tobia - Bullard Y Grant Y McBurney N Porth Y Trujillo N Campbell Y Harrell Y Perry N Thurston - Van Zant
While we need to put the heat on Thurston, Porth, and Campbell (all Democrats) as well as find out Van Zant (R) & Bullard’s (D) positions, we should also spend some time thanking the other members for their Yea votes. I’m sure a little thank you note goes a long way.
I’m confident this will pass in the house with no problems. The senate seems like it should pass, but we need to keep the pressure on to make sure.