Gun rights group challenges four Alachua County firearms ordinances

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - A gun rights group is challenging four Alachua County ordinances it says violate Florida’s firearms preemption law, and county leaders say they will address the matter at their next commission meeting.

The challenge

The executive director of Florida Carry sent the county a notice Sunday identifying four provisions in the county code the group says conflict with state law.

The challenged rules involve firearms during emergencies, the possession of firearms on a specific body of water, and restrictions on firearms inside the county courthouse. Florida Carry is also challenging courthouse signage that warns firearms, weapons, explosives and destructive devices are prohibited.

Local reaction

Bennett Latimer, operations manager at Lawful Defense Shoot GTR, said he agrees some of the restrictions go too far.

“The public safety always should be in the forethought of our government. That makes sense. But sometimes they take that too far and taking an individual’s right to protect themselves away from them in the name of public safety. Sometimes they go too far,” Latimer said.

County response

County officials have pointed to a response letter as their only comment on the matter. In it, the county attorney said the notice has been provided to county commissioners, the county manager and the county attorney’s office.

The letter states the matter will be discussed at the commission’s Aug. 11 meeting. County staffers said they will await the board’s direction before taking any further action.

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