Florida’s churches are at the center of a new debate over faith, safety, and regulation. Senate Bill 52, introduced by Senator Gaetz for the 2026 session, proposes sweeping changes to how houses of worship can provide armed security. Designed to ease the burden of state licensure requirements, the measure could reshape the way congregations protect their members. As the bill makes its way through the legislative process, religious leaders and organizations are watching closely to see how it might redefine both responsibility and risk.
What Is Senate Bill 52 (2026)
Senate Bill 52, filed on September 16, 2025, aims to make it easier and more cost-effective for places of worship in Florida to protect their congregations. The bill specifically provides an exemption from the usual state licensure requirements for certain volunteers who perform armed security services at houses of worship.
- Purpose: Provides an exemption from Florida’s standard state licensure requirements for certain volunteers who perform armed security services at houses of worship.
- Sponsors: Filed by Senator Gaetz, co-sponsored by Senator Osgood.
- Effective Date (if passed): July 1, 2026.
- Companion Bill: A similar measure, HB 95, was filed in the Florida House.
Key Points of the Bill
- Licensure Exemption: SB 52 exempts eligible volunteers from obtaining state security officer licenses when serving as armed security at their house of worship, under certain specific conditions.
- Eligibility and Circumstances: The exemption applies only under prescribed circumstances, which are anticipated to require proper vetting, background checks, or standards set either by the legislation or the place of worship. Review the final language of the bill for precise conditions.
- Not Universal for Paid Guards: This exemption does not extend to paid security guards or formal security companies, which must continue to comply with Florida’s security licensing statutes.
Potential Benefits
- Cost Savings: By allowing qualified volunteers to serve in this role, houses of worship may reduce costs associated with hiring licensed security firms or off-duty law enforcement.
- Enhanced Flexibility: The law provides religious communities more flexibility in forming and managing their own volunteer security teams as part of emergency preparedness and ongoing safety strategies.
Points of Caution and Best Practices
Even with this exemption, houses of worship must:
- Ensure volunteers are properly trained for armed roles, including ongoing use-of-force, de-escalation, and emergency response training.
- Follow all applicable firearm laws and background check standards to mitigate liability and enhance community safety.
- Coordinate with local law enforcement to ensure response plans are seamless and that volunteers understand their responsibilities and limitations.
- Keep current on any legal changes, as local authorities or insurance carriers may have additional requirements for armed volunteers.
Next Steps for Religious Organizations
- Review the Full Bill Language: The exemption applies only under “certain circumstances,” which will be clarified in the final version of the bill.
- Consult with Legal Counsel: Ensure compliance with both state law and insurance requirements.
- Develop Written Policies: Formalize security team protocols and standards for volunteer selection, training, and recordkeeping.
- Community Communication: Proactively communicate with congregants about changes in security and reassure them regarding their safety.
Current Status: Florida Senate Bill 52 (2026), filed on September 16, 2025, is still in committee review. As of October 6, 2025, it was referred to the Senate committees on Criminal Justice, Judiciary, and Rules, and has not yet advanced to a floor vote.
Legislative Progress
- September 16, 2025: Bill filed in the Florida Senate.
- October 6, 2025: Referred to Criminal Justice, Judiciary, and Rules committees.
- October 14, 2025: House companion bill (HB 95) moved into the Criminal Justice Subcommittee.
- No votes recorded yet: The bill remains in committee and has not reached the Senate floor.
Context & Implications
- Current law: Armed security guards in Florida must be licensed under Chapter 493, Florida Statutes.
- SB 52 change: Would allow unpaid volunteers at places of worship to serve in armed security roles without licensure, provided certain conditions are met.
- Impact: Supporters argue this reduces costs and makes it easier for congregations to protect themselves. Critics may raise concerns about training, oversight, and liability.
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Current Law | SB 52 Proposal |
|---|---|---|
| Armed security at worship | Must be licensed | Volunteers exempt from licensure |
| Cost to congregation | Pay for licensed guards | Reduced (volunteers allowed) |
| Oversight | State licensing standards | Limited to internal church policies |
| Effective date | N/A | July 1, 2026 |
Conclusion
SB 52 is pending in committee and has not yet been voted on. If enacted, it would take effect July 1, 2026, allowing armed volunteers at houses of worship to serve without state licensure.
Florida Senate Bill 52 (2026) marks a meaningful legislative effort to empower faith-based organizations to address security concerns without undue regulatory burden, provided best safety practices are observed. Stay informed as SB 52 progresses and seek expert guidance to implement these new provisions while prioritizing both legal compliance and community well-being.
For support in developing Florida-specific safety plans tailored to your house of worship, visit the Florida Church Bundle – Kearnan Consulting Group, LLC. It’s a dedicated resource designed to help faith-based organizations align with local standards and best practices.
For faith-based organizations seeking biblically grounded and operationally sound safety training, I highly recommend Trinity Security Allies; learn more at www.trinitysecurityallies.com.
References:
- “Senate Bill 52 (2026) – Security Services at Places of Worship.” The Florida Senate, filed 16 Sept. 2025, https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/52.
- Senate Bill 52 (2026) – The Florida Senate
- SB 52 (2026) – Security Services at Places of Worship | Florida House of Representatives
- Florida bill would let armed volunteers provide security at places of worship without pro license