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Newly Signed Gun Evacuation Bill Now Florida Law

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It’s now legal for people to carry a gun without a concealed permit during a declared state of emergency. That’s among more than 40 bills Governor Scott signed into law Thursday.

The National Rifle Association’s Marion Hammer is a huge backer of the new law. She says it couldn’t come at a better time.

“It is particular important with hurricane season rapidly approaching that people be allowed to carry their firearms with them when they are ordered to leave their homes and evacuate under a mandatory evacuation under a declared state of emergency,” said Hammer.

Last year, the NRA and the Florida Sheriffs Association clashedover measure. The Sheriffs called the bill vague. This year, the FSA got on board when a timeframe of 48 hours was put in placefor the amount of time people have to evacuate with their firearms. It can also be extended. As soon as the Governor signed the measure, it became law.

For more news updates, follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter: @SaschaCordner.

Sascha Cordner has more than ten years of public radio experience. It includes working at NPR member station WUFT-FM in Gainesville for several years. She's worked in both radio and TV, serving in various capacities as a reporter, producer and anchor. She's also a graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in telecommunications. She is the recipient of 15 awards from the Associated Press, Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), and Edward R. Murrow. Her award-winning stories include her coverage on the infamous “Dozier School for Boys” and a feature titled "Male Breast Cancer: Lost in the Sea of Pink." Currently, Sascha serves as the host and producer of local and state news content for the afternoon news program "All Things Considered" at WFSU. Sascha primarily covers criminal justice and social services issues. When she's not reporting, Sascha likes catching up on her favorite TV shows, singing and reading. Follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter:@SaschaCordner.