Florida Raises Gun-Buying Age to 21 After Parkland Shooting

In a significant legislative move, Florida has raised the minimum age to purchase firearms from 18 to 21. This change comes in the wake of the tragic Parkland school shooting that reignited debates over gun control across the United States. The bill, which was passed by the Florida legislature, marks a pivotal shift in the state's approach to gun ownership and aims to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

The Parkland shooting, which took place at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, resulted in the deaths of 17 students and staff members. The incident sparked nationwide outrage and led to increased pressure on lawmakers to enact stricter gun laws. In response, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the bill into law, making it one of the few states to increase the age requirement for purchasing firearms.

Supporters of the new law argue that it is a necessary step to enhance public safety and prevent firearms from falling into the hands of young adults who may not be mature enough to handle them responsibly. Critics, however, contend that the law infringes on Second Amendment rights and point out that it may not have prevented the Parkland shooting, as the perpetrator was already 19 years old at the time of the attack.

The decision to raise the age limit has reignited the ongoing debate over gun control in America. While some see it as a step in the right direction, others view it as an overreach of government authority. As the nation continues to grapple with the complex issue of gun violence, Florida's new law serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle to balance individual rights with public safety.

• Florida
• Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
• Parkland
• Ron DeSantis

Detailed

Florida Republicans look to roll back state's gun-ownership law to 18

3 weeks ago

- independent