A U.S. appeals court has declared a federal law that prohibits adults aged 18 to 21 from purchasing handguns from licensed firearms dealers as unconstitutional. This decision, made on Thursday by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, has sparked significant controversy regarding gun rights in the country.
Under current federal law, adults between 18 and 21 are not allowed to purchase handguns from federally licensed dealers, although they can buy rifles and shotguns. While parents may legally purchase handguns for their children, private sales or transactions at gun shows often provide a way around these restrictions.
The law, which dates back to 1968, was challenged by several gun rights groups, including the Firearms Policy Coalition, the Second Amendment Foundation, and the Louisiana Shooting Club, as well as individuals within the affected age group. The court’s ruling was based on its interpretation of the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees the right to "keep and bear Arms." The three-judge panel emphasized that the Second Amendment does not specify any age restrictions, unlike other constitutional provisions that set age requirements, such as the minimum age for U.S. House members (25 years old).
The judges explained, "This suggests that the Second Amendment does not include a minimum age requirement," further noting that individuals aged 18 to 20 are included within "the people" whose right to bear arms is protected under the Constitution.
However, gun violence prevention advocates have strongly criticized the ruling. Janet Carter, Senior Director of Issues and Appeals at Everytown Law, described the decision as "reckless and unfounded," arguing that the law banning handgun sales to young adults is both constitutional and crucial for public safety. Citing FBI data, Carter pointed out that firearms are the leading cause of death among children and teens, and individuals aged 18 to 20 commit gun homicides at three times the rate of those over 21. She expressed hope that the federal government would challenge the decision.
This ruling follows a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding a federal law that prevents domestic abusers from owning firearms, despite an earlier ruling by the 5th Circuit declaring that restriction unconstitutional. The latest ruling is expected to play a significant role in shaping future debates on gun control, particularly regarding the rights of young adults to purchase firearms.