A federal appeals court in Tallahassee, Florida has upheld the constitutionality of a state law that raises the minimum age to purchase rifles and long guns from 18 to 21. The law was implemented in 2018 following the tragic Parkland school shooting, where a 19-year-old gunman killed 17 people. The court ruled that the law aligns with the nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation, but the future of the law remains uncertain.
While the court upheld the law, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has stated he will not defend it, and Governor Ron DeSantis has shown support for changing state gun laws. A recent bill to repeal the age restriction was advanced by a state House panel, but it is unclear if it will gain Senate support. The case could potentially be taken up by the U.S. Supreme Court.
The law was passed in response to the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, where the gunman, Nikolas Cruz, legally purchased the weapon used in the attack. The National Rifle Association has challenged the law, arguing that it violates the Second Amendment. The legal battle has lasted seven years, resulting in the latest ruling by the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
Chief Judge William Pryor defended the law, citing historical basis, while dissenting Judge Andrew Brasher argued against it, stating that it goes against the nation’s historical tradition. Florida Attorney General Uthmeier opposes the ruling, while State House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell welcomes it. The debate on gun laws in Florida continues as changes to the legislation remain uncertain.
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