Florida is urging an Atlanta-based appeals court to uphold its law prohibiting individuals under 21 from buying rifles and other long guns, arguing that the restriction aligns with “historical tradition.” The National Rifle Association (NRA) is challenging the law, which was passed following the 2018 Parkland school shooting.
In their brief, Florida’s lawyers cited recent Supreme Court rulings emphasizing the importance of historical context in evaluating gun regulations. They argued that the law’s restriction on purchasing, but not possessing or using, firearms by those under 21 is consistent with historical practices.
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The state pointed to early America’s agrarian economy, where individuals under 21 were considered lacking in judgment and reason to enter into contracts, which were often necessary for firearm purchases at the time. Furthermore, state militia laws historically recognized this common-law limitation.
The NRA, in its brief, argued that the Supreme Court’s recent rulings support striking down the Florida law, claiming it infringes on young adults’ Second Amendment rights. They contend that the right to bear arms inherently includes the ability to acquire them, and purchasing is the most common and accessible method.
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The state countered, emphasizing that historical evidence supports the restriction, as states began passing age-based gun purchase restrictions in 1855 due to increased firearm power and accessibility.
The case has drawn national attention, with various groups filing amicus briefs supporting stricter gun laws and age-based restrictions. The Biden administration also filed a brief arguing that federal age-based restrictions on handgun sales are constitutional.
The outcome of this appeal will have significant implications for gun control efforts nationwide, particularly regarding age-based restrictions on firearm purchases.
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