Florida Senate approves gun restrictions; arming some school employees

Tallahassee, Fla. — The Florida state Senate passed the "Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act," named after the high school where 17 people were killed on Valentine's Day.

The bill would make it illegal for anyone under 21-years-old to buy a rifle, would require a three-day waiting period for most gun purchases and also establishes new mental health programs.  "This bill will make a difference now,'' said Sen. Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, sponsor of the bill. "When it becomes law, things will start changing."

The measure also establishes rules for arming some people in schools, but excludes teachers from performing that duty.  A Republican amendment changed the so-called Marshal Program Monday.  The program originally allocated $67 million to arm teachers who volunteer to go through law enforcement training.

The new version of the bill only allow teachers who perform other duties, such as coaching, to have guns. Other school staff, such as psychologists and guidance counselors, can also be trained to carry guns.

The bill narrowly passed, 20-18, and will now go to the Florida House.