TALLAHASSEE -- Gun advocates and business owners watched a contested bill to let gun owners bring their guns to work and keep them locked in their cars crawl out a first committee Tuesday.

It took six tries for lawmakers in the House Judiciary Committee to move the bill (HB 129) past its first stop. They offered a tweaked version: Gun owners could keep their weapons locked in their cars at work, unless businesses-- like security outfits and hazardous waste companies -- showed a compelling safety concern to ban the practice. This could include banning individual employees who have a history of violence or problems with the company. Plus businesses wouldn't be responsible for any crimes.

"I can live with today's results," said Marion Hammer, who represents the National Rifle Association in Florida. She is the handgun-toting grandmother who told legislators that voters' gun rights do not end when they drive into parking lots.

But business representatives, while they called Tuesday's language a good step to get the bill out of its first committee, say they still do not agree and will fight the measure at its next stops. They say property owners have the right to set the rules for those entering their turf.

"It does have next committee stops, and we'll be trying to work on it then, trying to preserve property rights for the business community," said Bill Herrle, a vice president with the Florida Retail Federation.

Both sides say the next battle is bill language stating that businesses must show "reasonable" and "necessary" reasons to ban guns at work.

Hammer said the clause could protect gun owners against a company's political whims, while Mark Wilson, with the Florida Chamber of Commerce, said the language is confusing and could lead to lawsuits.

Under the bill language presented Tuesday, employees who believe their gun rights are being violated could file a complaint with the state Attorney General, who could then bring legal action against a business owner. The law would only apply to private businesses, not facilities like government buildings and schools.

Wednesday marks the halfway point for this year's session, and the legislation must still make it through 5 committees. Plus, the Senate must still adopt Tuesday's compromise from the House.

Both sides said they'll keep working.

"It's not over 'til it's over," Hammer said.

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