evidence: By — Brendan Farrington, Associated Press Brendan Farrington, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/desantis-signs-bill-allowing-floridians-to-carry-concealed-guns-without-a-permit Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter DeSantis signs bill allowing Floridians to carry concealed guns without a permit Nation Apr 3, 2023 12:43 PM EDT TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Floridians will be able to carry concealed guns without a permit under a bill Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Monday, giving the governor another legislative victory as he prepares a campaign for president. The new law will allow anyone who can legally own a gun in Florida to carry one without a permit. It means training and a background check will not be required to carry concealed guns in public. It takes effect July 1. READ MORE: Desantis war on ‘woke’ colleges sparks fear among professors, students The arguments over the legislation were divided along political lines, with Republicans saying law-abiding citizens have a right to carry guns and protect themselves. They say most people will still want to get a permit because it will allow them to carry concealed weapons in states with reciprocal agreements and to be able to purchase guns without a waiting period.