Florida legislature passes $67 million program to arm school employees

Florida lawmakers sent bill to Republican Gov. Rick Scott that would allow some teachers to carry firearms in schools, the Sun Sentinelreported Wednesday.

Earlier in the day, Gov. Scott refused to say whether he would sign the bill.

By a vote of 67-50, the Florida House approved SB 7026, which provides $67 million to arm some school employees and approximately $300 million for mental health, school safety and security programs.

“I want all students to be safe in school,” said state Rep. Cynthia Stafford, (D-Miami). “I believe this is dangerous because there is an implicit bias against boys and girls of color.”

The bill would also restrict purchases of firearms to those over 21-years-old, imposes a three-day waiting period, and would allow law enforcement to seize firearms from people accused of making violent threats.