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CS/CS/SB 130 — Discharging a Firearm
by Community Affairs Committee; Criminal Justice Committee; and Senator Richter
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Criminal Justice Committee (CJ)
The bill (Chapter 2016-12, L.O.F.) amends s. 790.15, F.S., to prohibit the recreational discharge of a firearm outdoors, including for target shooting, in an area that the person knows or reasonably should know is primarily residential in nature and that has a residential density of one or more dwelling units per acre. A violation of this law is a first degree misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
The bill provides exemptions for the lawful defense of life or property, the accidental discharge of a firearm, or the performance of official duties that require the discharge of a firearm. Additionally, the penalties do not apply if, under the circumstances, the discharge does not pose a reasonably foreseeable risk to life, safety, or property.
These provisions became law upon approval by the Governor on February 24, 2016.
Vote: Senate 37-0; House 118-0