Court Upholds Florida's Gun Purchase Age Limit

In a pivotal legal development, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals recently upheld Florida's 2018 law that raises the minimum age for purchasing rifles and long guns from 18 to 21. This statute, enacted in response to the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, has been a focal point of legal and political debates.

Majority Opinion

Chief Judge William Pryor, writing for the majority, emphasized that the law aligns with historical traditions of firearm regulation. He noted that during the founding era, minors were generally considered to lack the judgment necessary to exercise certain legal rights, including the purchase of firearms. Pryor stated, "From this history emerges a straightforward conclusion: the Florida law is consistent with our regulatory tradition in why and how it burdens the right of minors to keep and bear arms." He further highlighted that while the law restricts minors from purchasing firearms, it still permits them to receive firearms from parents or responsible adults, thereby preserving access under supervision.

Dissenting Opinion

In contrast, Judge Andrew Brasher, joined by three other judges, dissented. The dissent argued that there is no historical precedent for prohibiting young adults from purchasing firearms and that the analogies drawn from contract law regarding minors were too indirect. They contended that the majority's reliance on historical practices concerning minors' contractual rights does not directly translate to a justification for restricting firearm purchases by individuals aged 18 to 20.

Attorney General's Perspective

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has publicly declared his opposition to the law. He stated that if the National Rifle Association (NRA) decides to seek further review of the law at the U.S. Supreme Court, he would direct his office not to defend it. Uthmeier expressed his belief that "restricting the right of law-abiding adults to purchase firearms is unconstitutional," adding, "Men and women old enough to fight and die for our country should be able to purchase firearms to defend themselves and their families."

Possibility of Repeal

Following the court's decision, legislative efforts to revisit the age restriction have gained momentum. A state House panel recently approved a measure (HB 759) that would repeal the age restriction, allowing 18 to 20-year-olds to purchase long guns. This proposal reflects a growing sentiment among some lawmakers to restore firearm purchasing rights to younger adults.

Governor's Opinion

Governor Ron DeSantis has expressed support for lowering the gun-buying age back to 18. He argues that if 18-year-olds are considered mature enough to serve in the military, they should also have the right to purchase firearms. DeSantis stated, "They come home and they can't even buy a rifle to go hunt. Are you an adult or not?"

In summary, while the federal appeals court has upheld Florida's current age restriction on firearm purchases, the issue remains a contentious topic within the state. The interplay between judicial rulings, legislative initiatives, and executive opinions ensures that discussions surrounding the appropriate age for firearm purchases will continue to evolve in Florida's political and legal arenas.