Panel advances bill allowing licensed volunteer armed security at houses of worship

The Criminal Justice Subcommittee reported HB 95 favorably after sponsors said the bill addresses a statutory gray area about armed volunteer security at places of worship. Representative Grow told the panel the bill amends Florida Statute chapter 493 to permit unpaid volunteers who meet licensing requirements to provide armed security on religious premises and requires a valid concealed-carry license under section 790.06.

Proponents — including a law-enforcement veteran who oversees campus security, pastors, and representatives of Florida Carry — argued the bill clarifies liability and encourages training. Reggie Bartkowski, a former police chief and chief of safety at Pensacola Christian College, said the measure would allow churches to focus on training and safety planning rather than legal uncertainty. Pastor Ken Wynn described the bill as a narrow fix to an existing statutory ambiguity.

Committee members pressed sponsors on training and background checks. The sponsor and several proponents said concealed-carry licensing already requires training and that the bill would not remove avenues for further training; some members suggested grant programs to help smaller congregations pay for professional security or training.

HB 95 was reported favorably, 17 yeas, 0 nays, and will move to subsequent House consideration.