Pub. Rec./Sales of Ammunition
If enacted, H0183 would alter Florida Statutes §790.065 by ensuring that records of legal ammunition transactions are destroyed within 48 hours after the completion of a transaction, thus enhancing confidentiality for individuals. This legislative measure is grounded in the belief that disclosing such records could lead to the profiling of law-abiding citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights. The legislation is also subject to review under the Open Government Sunset Review Act, set to repeal automatically in 2027 unless renewed, ensuring periodic evaluation of its necessity.
House Bill 183 (H0183) proposes significant amendments to Florida's public records laws concerning the sale and transfer of ammunition. The bill seeks to exempt specific records held by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) from public disclosure if they pertain to individuals who are not prohibited from receiving or transferring ammunition. This adjustment aims to protect the privacy of lawful buyers and transferees, asserting a public necessity to keep such information confidential to prevent potential harassment and profiling related to firearm ownership.
The bill's proponents argue that protecting the personal data of ammunition buyers is essential for safeguarding the Second Amendment rights of citizens against potential abuse or harassment. However, the proposal has sparked debate, particularly regarding concerns over transparency in firearm transactions and the implications for public safety. Opponents may question whether the privacy of purchasers justifies alterations to public records law, particularly in a context where the visibility of firearm transactions could play a role in public safety and accountability.