Florida Red Flag Law

Florida red flag laws, also known as Risk Protection Orders (RPOs), allow law enforcement officers and concerned family members or friends to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals who may pose a threat to themselves or others.

Under Florida’s RPO law, a court can issue a temporary order prohibiting an individual from possessing firearms or ammunition if the court determines that the individual poses a significant danger to themselves or others. The order can be issued on an emergency basis without prior notice to the individual, and it can remain in effect for up to 14 days. After a hearing, the court may extend the order for up to one year.

To initiate an RPO, a law enforcement officer or concerned family member or friend must file a petition with the court providing evidence that the individual poses a significant danger to themselves or others. The court will review the evidence and make a determination as to whether or not to issue an RPO.

Florida’s RPO law has been controversial, with some arguing that it infringes on Second Amendment rights and due process protections. Others argue that the law is necessary to prevent gun violence and protect public safety. The law is one of many state-level efforts to address the issue of gun violence in the United States.