Following last week’s landmark ruling in McDaniels v. State, open carry is now legal in Florida. Today, Attorney General James Uthmeier confirmed the decision and issued formal guidance to prosecutors and law enforcement across the state: law-abiding Floridians have the constitutional right to carry their firearms openly.

“The Court made clear what the Constitution already guarantees, Floridians have the right to bear arms, and that includes open carry,” said Republican Party of Florida Chairman Evan Power. “The Republican Party of Florida and our leaders have fought tirelessly for this outcome. Protecting the Second Amendment has always been a top priority, and today’s announcement is a major victory for freedom, for our constitutional rights, and for every law-abiding citizen who believes in the right to defend themselves and their families.”

The First District Court of Appeal struck down Florida’s longstanding open carry ban, finding it violated the Second Amendment. Attorney General Uthmeier directed law enforcement to end prosecutions under the old statute, while reminding officials that existing laws against threatening behavior, armed trespass, and restricted locations remain in place.

“This decision fully restores our constitutional right to bear arms” Power continued. “Law-abiding citizens should never be treated like criminals for exercising their rights.”

The Republican Party of Florida reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the Second Amendment and ensuring Florida continues to be the freest state in the nation.