Florida Approves Armed Volunteer Security at Houses of Worship
A new Florida law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis will allow houses of worship to use armed volunteers for security beginning July 1, 2026, in a move supporters say will help congregations strengthen protection amid rising security concerns • Read More
A new Florida law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis will allow houses of worship to use armed volunteers for security beginning July 1, 2026, in a move supporters say will help congregations strengthen safety measures amid rising security concerns.
The legislation, known as SB 52, exempts unpaid volunteers providing armed security at houses of worship from licensing requirements normally applied to professional security guards. Supporters of the bill say the change is especially important for smaller congregations that cannot afford full-time licensed security personnel.
Under the new law, volunteers must still meet several conditions, including holding a valid Florida concealed carry permit and passing background checks.
The measure was sponsored by State Senator Don Gaetz and received broad bipartisan support in the Florida Legislature.
Supporters argue the law addresses a growing need for protection at religious institutions following years of attacks targeting houses of worship across the United States.
Security professionals emphasized that proper training, preparation, and oversight remain essential despite the relaxed licensing requirements.
For many Jewish communities in Florida, where Shul’s have significantly increased security measures in recent years, the law is being viewed as an additional tool to help protect congregants while reducing costs.
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Read this over and over, “Security professionals emphasized that proper training, preparation, and oversight remain essential despite the relaxed licensing requirements.”