Florida Considers Allowing Churches to Use Armed Volunteers Instead of Licensed Security Guards

Bill Paves Way for Armed Volunteers at Religious Institutions

A bill in Florida paves the way for churches, synagogues, mosques, and other houses of worship to use armed volunteers for security without requiring professional security guard licenses.

Senate Bill 52 was unanimously passed by the Florida Senate earlier this month and has now moved to the state House for consideration. Its content allows religious institutions to use armed volunteers instead of hiring licensed security personnel — a solution that proponents say reduces costs while maintaining safety.

State Senator Don Gaetz, the bill's sponsor, told FOX 13 that armed security at synagogues, churches, and mosques is increasingly common, often utilizing licensed professional security personnel.

Violence Targeting Religious Institutions on the Rise

The bill comes amid concerns about incidents of violence targeting religious institutions nationwide. Last August, a shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minnesota killed two children and injured about 20 people. Last month in Mississippi, a suspect set fire to a synagogue, causing extensive damage and destroying Torah scrolls.

Tampa Pastor Once Drew Gun at Election Forum

Elvis Piggott, pastor of Triumph Church of Tampa, was arrested in October 2025 after drawing a gun during an argument following a Tampa City Council election forum. He later stated the action was in self-defense. Piggott observed that threats to religious institutions are an unfortunate reality.

He noted that the cost of hiring licensed security guards is very high — approximately $900 to $1,000 for two hours at an event.

Expert: On-Site Presence is Crucial

Aaron Chappell, co-founder of Vulture Training Group — a company that trains and certifies security personnel — told FOX 13 that crowded places are always high-value targets for bad actors. He posed the question: do you want someone five to six minutes away or someone immediately present when an incident occurs?

The bill continues to be considered in the Florida House of Representatives.