NRA Statement on Enactment of Florida Senate Bill 290, Firearms/Emergency Evacuation

Fairfax, Va. – The National Rifle Association's Institute for Legislative Action issued the following statement from the past president of the National Rifle Association, Marion P. Hammer, lauding the enactment of Florida Senate Bill 290:

"We are pleased to have this issue settled. This bill protects citizens from being charged with a crime for carrying their firearms with them during a mandatory evacuation in a declared state of emergency.When you're ordered to take your family, and leave your home and belongings behind, you should be not be deprived of the ability to protect yourself and your family.In evacuation situations you're on your own. You are responsible for the safety and defense of yourself and your family. Taking your firearms with you is not only your right, it is your responsibility.

"If you leave your firearms behind, not only will you have no way to protect yourself and your family, but there's a good chance they won't be there when you are allowed to return. They could be lost, either from hurricane damage or stolen by looters, which puts more guns in the hands of criminals. That poses a greater danger to emergency personnel, law enforcement and military personnel."

Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America's oldest civil rights and sportsmen's group. More than five million members strong, NRA continues to uphold the Second Amendment and advocates enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the armed services. Follow the NRA on social at Facebook.com/NationalRifleAssociation and Twitter @NRA.