Florida House Votes to Lower Firearm Purchase Age to 18 Amid Parkland Bill Review

The Florida House of Representatives has voted to reduce the legal age for purchasing firearms from 21 to 18, reigniting debates over gun control measures in the state. This decision comes as the state Senate prepares to revisit a bill related to the 2018 Parkland school shooting, which had initially raised the age limit to 21.

The vote, taken on March 26, 2025, has sparked widespread controversy, with critics arguing that lowering the age limit could increase the risk of gun violence, especially in light of the Parkland tragedy. Proponents of the change, however, maintain that the right to bear arms should not be restricted based on age.

Letters to the editor in the Sun-Sentinel have labeled the move as 'madness,' reflecting strong public sentiment against the rollback. As the Senate prepares to review the Parkland bill, the focus remains on how Florida will balance gun rights with public safety in the wake of past tragedies.

• Florida
• Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
• Parkland