City Council moves to close gun loophole opened in Florida

Philadelphia City Council is trying to restrict people from carrying guns in the city using permits from Florida.  If approved, the law will more than likely face a court challenge.Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Everett Gillison said it’s absurd that by using what is called the “Florida loophole,” someone can acquire a Florida gun carry permit and use it to carry a concealed handgun in Philadelphia.”It defies logic that a Philadelphia resident denied a license to carry a concealed firearm by the Philadelphia Police Department applying Pennsylvania law may still carry a concealed firearm on the streets of Philadelphia because the state of Florida has issued the resident a license through the mail,” Gillison.Councilman Darrell Clarke, who wrote the bill, admits it will probably be challenged by gun rights advocates in court.  “I just want to say for the record, I just want to thank you all, I look forward to being in court with you again,” he said.Pennsylvania recognizes permits from many states, but Florida is the easiest place to acquire a gun permit.  Similar laws have been proposed and rejected in the Legislature in Harrisburg.