UPD Chief Jim Slapp sent a mass email to the university on July 5 informing the FGCU community of House Bill 543 and whether or not it will affect those on campus.
As of July 1, adults over the age of 21 who are legally able can conceal carry a legal firearm without a license. HB 543 was signed by Governor Ron DeSantis April 3 which now allows permitless concealed carry.
Chief Slapp assures this law does not change where firearms are legal.
“While it is no longer necessary to have a permit to carry a concealed firearm, the law does not change the locations where firearms are allowed,” Slapp said in his email to the university community.
The possession of a firearm is prohibited at FGCU and all other college or university facilities. The only individuals able to carry a firearm on school grounds are law enforcement officers.
Chief Slapp sent in his email a list of places where carrying a firearm is and will remain illegal:
- School, college, or professional athletic event
- Any police, sheriff, or highway patrol station
- Detention facility, prison, or jail
- Courthouse
- Polling place
- Government body meeting at a county, public school district, municipality, or special district
- Elementary or secondary school facility or administration building
- College or university facility
- Portion of an establishment licensed to dispense alcohol for consumption (a bar)
- Airport
Please direct any questions regarding this new law to FGCU’s UPD at 239-590-1900.
