Bill aims to prevent mentally ill from purchasing guns

A bill that closes a loophole regarding guns sales and mental health will now head to Governor Rick Scott's desk.

State senator Audrey Gibson says she's thrilled the senate passed the bill unanimously.

“It will help us to continue having conversations about curbing gun violence.”

The Senate unanimously passed the bill. It seeks to close a loophole to guard against gun purchases by people who are mentally ill. People who voluntarily admit themselves for treatment would be entered into a state database to prevent them from purchasing firearms or ammunition.

“The information would be put into a database on any person who was a danger to themselves or others.”

Those who are involuntarily admitted are already entered into a state database. Gibson says this new bill is a good public safety measure.