Federal Court Rules Age Limits on Handgun Sales Violates Second Amendment

A federal appeals court has invalidated a national ban that kept 18-to-20-year-olds from buying handguns. This move may reshape how young Americans exercise their Second Amendment rights.

Key Facts:

  • The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that a federal law prohibiting adults aged 18-20 from buying handguns is unconstitutional.
  • The decision references a 2022 Supreme Court ruling (New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen) that changed how courts evaluate firearm restrictions.
  • The case has been sent back to a lower court for further review.
  • Everytown for Gun Safety urges the federal government to fight the appeals court decision, citing public safety concerns.
  • President Donald Trump previously pledged support for gun ownership, which could affect whether this case is appealed further.

The Rest of The Story:

The three-judge panel in New Orleans decided that the Second Amendment protects 18-to-20-year-olds as part of “the people.”

Their opinion overturned past rulings that had maintained the age limit.

The Supreme Court’s landmark Bruen decision requires judges to see if a challenged firearms restriction aligns with the nation’s historical traditions.

That new standard has led other courts in Texas, Minnesota, and Virginia to strike down similar age-based restrictions.

Everytown for Gun Safety insists the ban is vital for public safety, pointing to FBI data showing 18-to-20-year-olds commit gun homicides at higher rates than older adults.

Supporters of the ruling argue that the Constitution must be applied consistently to all legal adults, regardless of age.

With the Trump administration showing strong support for gun rights, some experts believe an appeal to the Supreme Court might not happen, leaving the new ruling in place.

Commentary:

This ruling reflects a basic principle: at age 18, individuals are considered adults for legal purposes, such as military service.

If 18-year-olds are trusted to handle weapons in defense of the nation, it is only logical they be granted the same right to purchase and own them in civilian life.

If a young adult is deemed mature enough to defend the country then they are mature enough to buy a handgun.

Limiting legal adults from buying handguns while they can vote, sign contracts, and serve in uniform is not consistent.

Either the age of adulthood must be adjusted across the board, or individuals at 18 should have the responsibilities and freedoms of any other adult.

Common sense suggests that rights recognized by the Constitution should not be withheld if someone is old enough to serve.

The Bottom Line:

The 5th Circuit’s decision could open the door for 18-to-20-year-olds to buy handguns. This ruling amplifies a fundamental question about the consistent application of adulthood in American law.

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