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Bill

SB 80

Safe Storage of Firearms and Ammunition in Motor Vehicles and Vessels

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lori Berman

Florida bill mandating secure locked storage of unattended firearms in vehicles/vessels to prevent theft and unauthorized access, with exceptions for active use situations.

Referred to Criminal Justice; Judiciary; Rules
#crimes
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 80

Legislative bill overview

SB 80 requires firearm and ammunition owners in Florida to store their weapons in locked containers or use locking devices when leaving firearms unattended in motor vehicles or vessels. The bill establishes standards for secure storage to prevent unauthorized access, particularly by minors or theft, while creating exceptions for active use situations and law enforcement.

Why is this important

Unattended firearms in vehicles represent a significant source of gun theft and accidental child access incidents. This legislation addresses a real public safety gap by establishing clear storage requirements that aim to reduce these incidents while balancing gun owners' practical access needs during legitimate activities like hunting or self-defense.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Opponents may argue the storage requirements create barriers to self-defense access and infringe on property rights regarding how gun owners secure their own weapons
  • Enforcement and liability questions: Unclear penalties for violations, whether criminal or civil, and whether gun owners face liability if stored firearms are stolen despite compliance
  • Practical compliance burden: Determining what constitutes adequate "locked containers" or "locking devices" and the cost burden on owners, particularly those with multiple firearms
  • Scope ambiguity: Whether exceptions for "active use" are defined clearly enough to avoid selective enforcement or disputes over legitimate temporary storage during vehicle operation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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