Florida Bill Would Allow Churches to Arm Volunteer Security Without a License

In what sounds like the precursor to the next viral "Florida Man" headline, politicians in the Sunshine State are rapidly advancing a bill which would allow churches to arm congregants and other unlicensed volunteers for use as security guards. 

In Florida, armed security personnel are required to have a professional security license. That license, which includes a background check and 28 classroom hours of safety and proficiency training, typically takes between 30 and 90 days to complete.

But FL Senate Bill 52 removes those hurdles for houses of worship, allowing churches, synagogues, and mosques to utilize unlicensed volunteers instead.

As the bill quickly makes its way through the Florida legislature, many are now asking: What could go wrong?

Arming the Flock?

The idea of arming volunteers to defend houses of worship has proved popular, and the legislation has moved quickly since its introduction in September of last year. Within weeks it found its way in front of influential committees, and last month it was unanimously approved by the Florida Senate.

It is expected to pass the House and be signed into law by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, where it would take effect on July 1st.

The measure to expand church defense comes amidst concerns about violence at houses of worship nationwide, including high-profile attacks like the shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis last August which left two children dead and 21 others injured.

The Cost of Security

Supporters of the bill say it's a necessary change due to the cost of professional security. 

Church leadership seeking armed guards often find themselves having to reach into their pockets to protect their flock – and the bills add up quickly. And while most megachurches have security, smaller churches – many of which are already barely scraping by – are simply unable to afford the extra expense. 

Elvis Piggott, pastor at Triumph Church of Tampa, explained that most churches simply don’t have the funds to afford security. "It can get very costly," Pastor Piggott said. "Just for myself at an event could be roughly $900 to $1,000 for two hours."

On its head, the bill has a noble intent: Make it easier to protect congregations from gun violence by arming the flock. But some critics say it could have the opposite outcome.

Is This a Good Idea?

“Nothing says safety like untrained people with guns,” offered one Reddit user. Online comments seemed concerned that allowing guards to bypass safety training could result in even more violence, as they may overreact in the moment or fail to de-escalate situations. 

“Letting random armed volunteers handle security sounds like a flawless plan,” added another Redditor. “Guess thoughts and prayers count as training now.”

Others had an even more cynical response. ”Go for it!” said another Reddit user sarcastically. “I'm sure God will 'protect the innocent' – just like he does at schools and grocery stores.”

Supporters of the bill counter that churches should have the right to defend their property from threats without emptying the coffers to do so. 

What is your reaction? Do extra guns mean extra safety, even in the untrained hands of volunteers? If this was an option for your church, would you support it?