New Florida laws take effect July 1

St. Pete Brewing owner Tom Anderson has hundreds of glass growlers ready to fill and sell Wednesday.

"It's a great step forward for craft beer, because it validates us for staying here in this state," said Anderson.

The craft beer industry convinced legislators to turn the other cheek to big beer lobbyists who tried to keep Florida as one of the only states to ban 64 ounce containers.

Brewers say the now-defunct regulation prevented growth.

"The breweries are just starting here," said Anderson. "The big beer brands are worried about losing market share."

Other laws wound up in court.

After a judge blocked a bill that requires a 24-hour waiting period for women seeking abortions, Attorney General Pam Bondi's office appealed. That means the block is lifted until courts can sort it out.

"It has been a tough battle," said Dr. Joyce Hamilton Henry of the ACLU Florida.

Florida women now must wait 24 hours to have an abortion after a first visit to a clinic, thrilling pro-life advocates who say it gives them a chance to think things over.

"We will hope a judge will agree with us that the law is unconstitutional," said Hamilton Henry.

On the latest gun law, there is no legal challenge.

Since the beginning of hurricane season, even those who don't have concealed carry permits have been allowed to carry a gun when an evacuation order is given.

Like the abortion law, it's controversial.

Not everyone is sure if it offers protection.

"A lot of thieves try to take advantage of the situation," said one Tampa resident.

Another resident said, "Everybody is in a hurry, everyone wants to get out. Sometimes that causes arguments. Who wants a gun in the middle of an argument?"

Guns, abortion, alcohol: Our political editor says the culture wars in Florida are a sign that lobbyists still have an impact.

"The gun lobby in Florida is a very powerful lobby," said Craig Patrick. "The members are high-turnout voters and often single-issue voters. The lawmakers know it."

The ACLU has asked the judge to lift the stay requested by Attorney General Pam Bondi, which would mean his original injunction would be in effect.

No order has been handed down yet.