FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Proposed Legislation for Consideration)
Proposed Florida Bill Seeks Stronger Oversight of Firearms Training Industry
New Measures Aim to Reduce Liability for Armed Guards and Civilians
ORLANDO, FL – (8/18/2025) – A newly proposed bill in Florida aims to address the loosely regulated firearms training industry, highlighting the urgent need to set stricter, statewide standards. With countless “overnight,” “weekend,” and even YouTube-inspired instructors entering the field, many individuals receive incomplete or inadequate instruction in what is undeniably a high-liability subject. Supported by Valortec —a leading firearms training institution—and Penalta & Associates, P.A., the proposed legislation aspires to reduce liability for armed professionals and civilians alike by raising the bar on both instructor qualifications and course requirements.
Addressing the Regulatory Gap
Currently, Florida laws provide only minimal oversight for civilian firearms training outside of official licensing, such as the Class G certification. This gap has enabled a surge of unlicensed or under-credentialed firearms instructors who offer instruction to the public, often without the rigorous background or comprehensive training needed to effectively prepare students for real-world scenarios. The new bill proposes:
-
Mandatory Licensing for the majority of firearms instructors, ensuring proper credentials and expertise.
-
Elevated Standards including stricter scoring thresholds, regulated target distances, and modernized curriculum.
Key Provisions in the Proposed Bill
-
Minimum Target Distances
The legislation would standardize target spacing to at least three feet, enhancing “threat acquisition” training and mitigating liability tied to poorly structured proficiency tests. -
Increased Proficiency Scores
Recognizing that high-stress situations commonly degrade accuracy, lawmakers propose raising the minimum passing score for Class G firearms applicants from 168 to 190 out of 240. This adjustment fosters a more realistic reflection of a student’s readiness under pressure. -
Regulation of Firearms Instructors
Under the proposed guidelines, most civilian firearms instruction—beyond purely competitive or sport shooting—would be conducted exclusively by licensed Class K instructors. This measure aims to eliminate “weekend warrior” or YouTube-based training programs that endanger both trainees and the general public through incomplete or misleading curriculum. -
English Language Requirement
By mandating English as the primary language of instruction, the bill underscores the critical importance of clear communication, particularly in emergencies or interactions with law enforcement. -
Ongoing Oversight
The Florida Department of Agriculture would be required to regularly update and review the state’s Firearms Training Manual, incorporating feedback from recognized instructors and industry experts. This ensures continuous evolution of best practices and industry standards.
Industry and Legal Support
Valortec USA co-owner and Master Law Enforcement Instructor Herfel Torres explains: “A high-liability subject like firearms training requires consistent, professional guidance. We’ve seen too many individuals wrongly assume they are qualified to teach, creating a serious liability risk for both students and the broader community.”
Attorney Alexander Penalta of Penalta & Associates, P.A., representing Valortec, notes: “Formal oversight is long overdue. By enforcing higher standards for both trainers and trainees, we reduce liability and enhance public safety.”
About Valortec USA
Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Valortec is a premier firearms training institution serving American clientele, as well as law enforcement and military agencies. Valortec’s high-caliber programs emphasize realistic, scenario-based learning and rigorous standards.