Florida House advances bill to lower gun-buying age

A proposal to change Florida's gun-buying age is advancing in the House, but the Senate is not taking action for now. The current law, which prevents people under 21 from purchasing rifles and shotguns, was enacted after the tragic 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. On Thursday, the House Judiciary Committee voted in favor of the bill, which would reduce the minimum age for buying long guns from 21 to 18. The vote was 16 in favor and 6 against, with some Republicans joining Democrats in opposing the measure. Past attempts to repeal the age restriction were not successful in the Senate. Senate President Ben Albritton expressed his emotional connection to the issue, recalling the Parkland shooting's impact. He emphasized the importance of Second Amendment rights but did not reveal how he intends to proceed. The Senate has not scheduled any discussions on a related bill. Rep. Michelle Salzman, who supports the bill, highlighted the needs of young parents who want to protect their families. However, Broward County School Board Chair Debra Hixon, a widow of a shooting victim, argued that repealing the law would disrespect the memory of those who lost their lives. Luis Valdes from Gun Owners of America argued that changing the law is necessary to restore Second Amendment rights for young people. Federal law already prohibits handgun purchases for those under 21. This proposal comes on the heels of a recent court ruling that upheld the age restriction. Florida's new Attorney General, James Uthmeier, stated he would not defend the law if it faces further legal challenges, believing it to be unconstitutional. Governor Ron DeSantis has shown support for changing the state's gun laws, including the age limit.