Florida Senate President considers lowering gun-buying age

Senate President Ben Albritton is facing a significant decision regarding a House bill that aims to reduce the age for buying long guns in Florida from 21 back to 18. This potential change comes seven years after the tragic mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, where a gunman killed 17 people. Albritton shared his emotional reaction after visiting the school. He connected with the families of victims, particularly the Hoyers, whose son Luke was killed. He emphasized the importance of gun safety and reflected on changes made to improve school security after the shooting. This is the third consecutive year that some lawmakers have pushed to reverse the age requirement. They argue it is unconstitutional despite courts upholding the law. Supporters of the bill believe the post-Parkland age limit was hastily enacted and should be reconsidered. Opponents, including families of victims, view the bill as disrespectful and harmful to the community. Debbie Hixon, a Broward County School Board member and widow of a victim, expressed her feelings of betrayal, noting the community's call for safety reforms after the shooting. The original restrictions included raising the minimum age for long gun purchases and implementing a waiting period for gun sales. These measures have been credited with making schools safer, according to lawmakers. Proponents of the new bill argue that young adults at 18 should have the same rights as adults in other areas, like military service or marriage. However, critics point out that this age group is involved in a significant percentage of school shootings and emphasize the importance of mental health support. The bill is expected to be voted on soon, largely along party lines. Albritton's decision will be crucial, as past Senate leadership refused to consider similar proposals. Legal opinions about the bill’s constitutionality may also influence the outcome, as Florida’s Attorney General has indicated he would not defend the limits if challenged.