Bill To Close 'Florida Gun Loophole' Passes Phila. City Council
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Philadelphia City Council has approved a bill that attempts to close the so-called "Florida Gun Loophole," though the plan's sponsors fully expect it to be challenged in court.
Councilman Darrell Clarke says, right now, a Philadelphia resident who is denied a gun permit in Pennsylvania can easily get one from Florida.
And that permit, he says, could be used legally to carry a concealed weapon in the city, "Right now they can simply go online and apply for a gun license from Florida. Under the current law, that person is now authorized to carry that gun in Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, on the streets."
City Council, Thursday, approved Clarke's bill that would end recognition of gun permits that are issued to Pennsylvania residents by certain other states, including Florida. Attorney Scott Shields, who has represented the NRA in challenging other Philadelphia gun laws, says this bill is pre-empted by state law, and the state has reciprocity with Florida. Clarke says he expects the NRA to sue and believes it can withstand such a legal challenge.
In the meantime, a spokesman says Mayor Nutter is "very likely" to sign the measure. However, Clarke's office said technical ammendments are needed first and Council will need to revise the measure before sending it to the mayor.
Reported by Mike Dunn, KYW Newsradio 1060
