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Florida Authorizes Armed Paramedics For Hostage Standoffs, Mass Shooting Response

Jacob Langston
/
Orlando Sentinel
Paramedics can now be armed during risky operations.

Along with bandages, hypodermic needles and oxygen tanks, Florida paramedics can now carry firearms into high-risk situations.

On Friday, Governor Ron DeSantis approved a bill that allows paramedics to arm themselves when responding to situations like mass shootings or hostage standoffs.

The Sun-Sentinelreports that the Broward Sheriff’s Office and the Broward County Chiefs of Police Association supported the bill. Supporters said medics shouldn’t be left defenseless.

The new law takes effect July 1st.

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