Florida’s new “Security in Places of Worship” law, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on April 23, takes effect July 1. Despite some confusion surrounding the legislation, the law primarily removes the requirement that churches, ministries, synagogues and other places of worship use state-licensed security guards to provide security services.

According to Robert Dummett, Executive Director of In-Gauge of Polk County, the new law does not require places of worship to submit security plans to local sheriffs, conduct background checks on volunteer security team members, require state-approved training, or mandate concealed carry licenses except where school-zone laws apply.

If a place of worship is located within 1,000 feet of a public or private school, armed volunteers must possess a valid Florida concealed carry license or a recognized out-of-state permit. The law also clarifies that places of worship are not required to provide security. However, organizations that choose to establish in-house security teams may use unpaid volunteers who serve only on property owned or operated by the religious institution.

While the Florida Sheriffs Association recommends training, background checks and written security plans, those recommendations are not required by law.

To help churches understand the new requirements, In-Gauge of Polk County will host a Guardian Training Class on July 11 from 1–4:30 p.m. For information, email [email protected]. 

For more Good News, read the GOOD NEWS July 2026 Issue at: https://digital.goodnewsfl.org/2026/july/#1