FL H0209

Provides an exemption from criminal penalties for carrying a concealed weapon or firearm while evacuating pursuant to a mandatory evacuation order during a state of emergency declared by the Governor under chapter 252 or by a local authority under chapter 870.

Exemption applies to unlicensed persons who carry concealed weapons or firearms during the act of evacuation; normally carrying concealed weapons without a license is a first-degree misdemeanor and carrying concealed firearms without a license is a third-degree felony.

Clarifies that persons may carry self-defense chemical spray and nonlethal stun guns or electric weapons designed for defensive purposes without violating the unlicensed concealed carry prohibition.

Does not preclude prosecution for use of self-defense chemical spray, electric weapons, or stun guns during the commission of other criminal offenses under specified statutes.

Effective date: July 1, 2014.