
Florida House Approves Bill to Lower Rifle Purchase Age to 18
The Florida House of Representatives has passed a controversial bill, HB 759, that would lower the minimum age requirement for purchasing rifles and long guns from 21 to 18. The decision has sparked intense debate across the state, with many residents and organizations expressing strong opposition to the proposed change.
Critics argue that lowering the age limit could lead to increased gun violence, particularly among young adults. Letters to the editor in the Sun-Sentinel have described the move as 'madness,' emphasizing the potential dangers of allowing teenagers to buy firearms. The bill's passage comes in the wake of the tragic Parkland shooting, which prompted the initial increase in the age limit to 21.
Supporters of the bill, however, believe it aligns with Second Amendment rights and argue that responsible 18-year-olds should not be restricted from purchasing certain types of guns. The legislation now moves to the Florida Senate for further consideration.