Very timely considering the state of affairs in the USA today.
In 1970, the State of Florida passed sweeping emergency measures laws which conferred enormous powers to Sheriffs and Municipal officials (Mayors and Chiefs of Police). The law was meant to contain and prevent riots and the widespread breakdown of the rule of law. The officials could declare an emergency under the “imminent threat of violence”, which gave broad discretion. The emergency could only be in effect for 72 hours, after which time the county commission or the city council would be required to approve any extension of the emergency.
There were many riots during the Vietnam era, particularly at universities.
Part of the legislation was 870.044, which automatically forbade the exercise of many rights protected by the Second Amendment when an emergency was declared:
Whenever the public official declares that a state of emergency exists, pursuant to s. 870.043, the following acts shall be prohibited during the period of said emergency throughout the jurisdiction:
(1) The sale of, or offer to sell, with or without consideration, any ammunition or gun or other firearm of any size or description.
(2) The intentional display, after the emergency is declared, by or in any store or shop of any ammunition or gun or other firearm of any size or description.
(3) The intentional possession in a public place of a firearm by any person, except a duly authorized law enforcement official or person in military service acting in the official performance of her or his duty.
Later, this exemption was added:
Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed to authorize the seizure, taking, or confiscation of firearms that are lawfully possessed, unless a person is engaged in a criminal act.
The law is an example of the height of Progressive philosophy: When there is a breakdown in law and order, all power should be in the hands of government officials.
https://www.ammoland.com/2025/06/florida-pass-bill-to-restore-second-amendment-rights-during-emergencies/#
