On Tuesday, the Florida House of Representatives began its session with a somber prayer for the 17 lives lost in the recent tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. However, moments later, they voted against a critical proposal aimed at banning AR-15 rifles, other assault-style weapons, and high-capacity magazines from the state.
House Bill 219 was set for discussion by three subcommittees before being brought to a vote. With the end of the legislative session on March 9th approaching and the memory of the Parkland shooting still vivid, Representative Kiera Thompson from Miami sought to expedite the process. She urged that the bill be removed from committee and brought directly to the House floor for immediate debate, emphasizing the need for lawmakers to demonstrate that the safety of students and school staff is paramount.
Among those watching were student survivors from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High, who had traveled early that morning to speak with legislators about the urgent need for reform in gun control. Unfortunately, the motion to consider the bill was defeated with a vote of 36 to 71.
In a stark display of disregard, elected representatives sat in front of young individuals who had spent terrifying moments in lockdown, fearing for their lives, and who had already endured the pain of losing friends and teachers. The outcome of the vote was not even close, a reality that is difficult to absorb.
Earlier that day, 100 students embarked on a seven-hour journey to the state capitol, equipped with sleeping bags, snacks, and an unwavering determination to voice their concerns about gun control. Due to bus issues, not all students made it to the House in time for the vote, with some learning of the bill’s failure while still traveling. Frustrated by the apparent indifference of the lawmakers, they took to social media to express their resolve to continue their fight for safety in schools.
The Florida House’s decision should provoke outrage among anyone who values human life. To outright reject a discussion on such a critical issue, especially in the presence of survivors, reveals much about the character of those in power.
Yet, these resilient teens, along with peers across the nation, are mobilizing to ensure their voices are heard. The students who traveled to Tallahassee still plan to meet with lawmakers in the coming days, and a national “March for Our Lives” event is scheduled for March 24. As senior student Lily Carter pointed out on her way to the capitol, legislators should remember that these young advocates won’t remain teenagers forever. What better way to celebrate turning 18 than by exercising their right to vote on Election Day?
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In summary, the recent dismissal of the assault weapons ban by Florida lawmakers in front of Parkland survivors highlights a troubling disregard for the safety of students. However, the determination of these young advocates to seek change, engage with lawmakers, and prepare for future elections signals a powerful movement that cannot be overlooked.