(NewsReady.com) – During WWII, the Florida State Guard served as a defense force for the state. The force was active from 1941-1947, but disbanded once the federal government released the Florida Army National Guard from active duty. Governor Ron DeSantis (R) wants to bring it back.
On December 2, DeSantis announced he wanted to reestablish the Florida Guard. He explained the force could provide support to the state’s National Guard during hurricanes and other emergencies. The governor also said the state militia wouldn’t be “encumbered by the federal government” and would allow them to respond quickly to emergencies.
I am proposing more than $100 million for our National Guard, active-duty military and veterans, and to re-establish the Florida State Guard to assist our National Guard in state-specific emergencies.
I am committed to supporting our military and keeping our state safe.
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) December 2, 2021
The governor is asking for $3.5 million from the state legislature to establish the force of 200 volunteer civilians. Florida will use the money to train and equip volunteers.
When the Florida Guard was disbanded in the ‘40s, the state legislature retained the power to create the militia again if needed. Congress allows for state defense forces under 32 US Code § 109. Currently, 22 states have their own forces in addition to the National Guard, so this isn’t anything strange or conspiratorial.
The state legislature will now have to approve the governor’s request. Republicans have already voiced support for the plan.
Copyright 2021, NewsReady.com
