Florida Gov. Scott Breaks with NRA; Signs New Gun Control, School Safety Bill

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According to the governor, “Every student in Florida has the right to learn in a safe environment, and every parent has the right to send their kids to school knowing that they will return safely at the end of the day.”

Gov. Scott told Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School students, “You made your voices heard. You didn’t let up. And, you fought until there was change. You helped change our state. You made a difference.”

Under the legislation, individuals purchasing a gun must be 21 years old. There is a three-day waiting period to buy any gun to ensure full and complete background checks.  The sale and possession of bump stocks are prohibited.

The bill creates “Risk Protection Orders,” which allows a court to prohibit a violent or mentally ill person from buying or possessing a gun. A law enforcement officer can petition a court for a risk protective order to temporarily prevent persons from accessing firearms when they pose significant risk to themselves or others.

Additionally, the bill provides $400 million in funding to keep students safe and enhance mental health treatment.