Florida tourists warned against new gun laws

TOURISTS to the United States are being warned that gun owners in Florida, if threatened, have the law on their side should they decide to shoot first and ask questions later.

The Self-Protection Act, which was passed unanimously by the Senate last year and came into effect this week, permits Florida residents to use deadly force to prevent any threat to their safety.

In the past, Floridians only could use deadly force after attempting to retreat; now, they can take the initiative against potential dangers or threats with legal protection.

The new law also gives immunity from criminal or civil charges to a shooter, as long as the person shot is not a police officer.

The law means homeowners have the right to protect themselves against invaders and the Self-Protection Act extends the right to armed defence in vehicles and anywhere a person feels he or she is threatened.

Meanwhile, a prominent anti-gun group in the United States is telling tourists on their way to Florida that they face an increased risk of being shot and killed there if they dare argue with the locals, thoroughly alarming some visitors and infuriating state officials, including Governor Jeb Bush.

The group, the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, has been placing advertisements in newspapers around the United States and distributing leaflets at Miami Airport that carry the headline: An Important Notice to Florida Visitors.

It includes a picture of Florida drawn like a handgun and offers advice on how to stay safe. "Do not argue unnecessarily with local people. If someone appears to be angry with you, maintain to the best of your ability a positive attitude, and do not shout or make threatening gestures."

The Brady group, which will also place advertisements in some European newspapers, is reacting to a state law that came into effect last weekend. The "stand your ground" law allows Florida residents to use guns or deadly force in public places without trying to escape first.

Several people who got the leaflets at the Miami airport this week appeared taken aback by the new law.

"It's a little scary," said Melissa Vosberg, on her way to Chicago. "It's 'shoot first, ask about it later'."

Bush has branded the Brady group's tactics as "pathetic. It's pure unadulterated politics shame on them". Other proponents of the measure, pushed by the National Rifle Association, say it will make Florida a safer place.