Gov. Rick Scott Introduces $500-Million School and Gun Safety Plan Following Tragedy
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TALLAHASSEE, FL — In the wake of the recent school shooting in Parkland, Governor Rick Scott has unveiled a sweeping, three-part emergency plan to tighten gun laws and protect Florida campuses. The $500-million proposal tackles school safety through a mix of strict firearm restrictions, heavy campus security, and expanded mental health funding.
The plan represents a major shift in state policy, focusing directly on keeping weapons out of the hands of dangerous or mentally unstable individuals.
What You Need to Know
The Cost: A $500-million budget proposal to fund school security and mental health initiatives
New Age Limit: Raises the minimum age to purchase any firearm in Florida to 21, with exceptions for military and law enforcement
Bump Stock Ban: Fully bans the sale and possession of bump stocks across the state
Baker Act Changes: Tightens laws to make it much harder for individuals detained under the Baker Act to buy or own weapons
Key Pillars of the Safety Plan
Violent Threat Restraining Orders — Allows family members, law enforcement officers, or community welfare experts to ask a court to temporarily strip gun rights from someone showing violent behavior.
Armed Campus Protection — Places at least one dedicated law enforcement officer for every 1,000 students in every public school across Florida.
Crisis Teams — Funds dedicated mental health counselors at schools to identify and treat struggling students before they turn to violence.
Why This Plan Matters Now
The proposal comes under immense pressure from students, parents, and lawmakers demanding immediate action after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy. By proposing a higher buying age and red-flag style restraining orders, Governor Scott is breaking with traditional party lines to address gaps in the state's current safety laws. The plan will now head to the Florida Legislature, where lawmakers are rushing to turn these proposals into law before the current legislative session ends.
📍 Tallahassee, FL — State Capitol
📅 Published: February 23, 2018
🌐 flgov.com — check the Governor's official portal for updates on the legislative vote
