New era in Florida: Motorist drives with an AK-47 without breaking the law

A video that started circulating on Instagram in recent hours has gone viral.

In the images, a motorcyclist is seen riding on a highway in Florida with an AK-47 slung across their back, which has sparked surprise and raised questions about the appropriateness of carrying such a weapon in public.

The Miamiwelit account reported that the incident took place in Miami, although the exact location was not specified.

Although the motorist's decision to display a weapon in the middle of the road drew attention, the fact is that he was not violating any current state law.

The AK-47 in U.S. and Florida Legislation

The weapon in question, of Russian manufacture, corresponds to the AK-47 series.

In the United States, fully automatic versions have been heavily restricted since 1986, making their transfer to civilians virtually impossible. However, semi-automatic versions, which fire one bullet for each trigger pull, do not have a general federal ban.

In Florida, unlike in other states, the possession and display of AK-type semiautomatic rifles is legal.

Although in 2025 bills have been introduced -such as SB 1338- to prohibit the sale and possession of these weapons categorized as "assault weapons," those proposals are still in the legislative process and have not changed the current legal framework.

The new right to open carry in Florida

The virality of the video coincides with the entry into force, just this Thursday, of the ruling by the First District Court of Appeals, which declared the ban on open carry in Florida unconstitutional.

With the ruling, and with the support of Governor Ron DeSantis, citizens can openly carry firearms in public spaces, except in explicitly prohibited areas such as schools, courthouses, airports, and private properties that restrict it.

During an event at Florida International University, DeSantis defended the measure by stating that it will not change the daily lives of Floridians.

"The sky is not going to fall because of the open door," he stated.

Reactions and social tensions

The incident involving the motorcyclist has served as a vivid example of the extent of the new regulations, sparking mixed opinions.

For some Second Amendment advocates, it is a demonstration of the freedom that citizens should have to carry firearms.

For others, it represents an unnecessary risk, but they will have to resign themselves to what the courts have ruled.

The law enforcement agencies, meanwhile, face the challenge of adjusting their protocols.

Although openly carrying weapons is no longer illegal, doing so in a threatening or reckless manner remains a criminal offense. Attorney General James Uthmeier warned that any irresponsible use of carrying can lead to arrests.

Impact on Florida's Arms Culture

Florida, with over 2.4 million concealed carry licenses, has historically been one of the states with the strictest restrictions on open carry.

The new stage represents a profound cultural and legal shift that aligns the state with the majority of the country.

However, doubts persist about its impact on public safety.

Experts indicate that the indiscriminate display of weapons without proper training could increase risks on public roads, especially in a context where security courses have seen a 64% decline compared to the previous year.

The motorcyclist with the AK-47 has become a symbol of this new era in Florida, a graphic reminder of how legislation can alter the relationship between citizens and firearms, as well as public spaces, overnight.

Frequently asked questions about open carry of firearms in Florida