Florida’s Gun Buying Age Law Upheld by Appeals Court

In a significant ruling, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld Florida's law raising the minimum age to buy a gun from 18 to 21. This decision comes in the wake of the tragic 2018 Parkland shooting, which spurred state lawmakers to enact stricter gun control measures. The law was challenged by the National Rifle Association (NRA), arguing that it infringed on Second Amendment rights. However, the court, in a 3-0 decision, ruled against the NRA's claims, reinforcing the state's authority to regulate gun purchases for public safety.

The ruling reaffirms the measures taken by Florida following the Parkland tragedy, where 17 students and staff members were killed at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The decision has been met with mixed reactions; gun control advocates applaud the move as a step towards safer communities, while gun rights supporters see it as an overreach of government power. The law, part of a broader package of gun control reforms passed in Florida, also includes red flag provisions and bans on bump stocks.

This case highlights the ongoing national debate over gun rights versus public safety. The NRA has expressed its intent to appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court, signaling that the legal battle over this contentious issue is far from over. As Florida continues to navigate its path towards balancing these competing interests, the state sets a precedent that may influence gun legislation nationwide.

• 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals
• Florida
• NRA
• Parkland

Detailed

Appeals court upholds Florida's gun-buying age law passed after Parkland shooting

3 weeks ago

- sun-sentinel