Law Requiring 21-Year-Olds to Buy Handguns Struck Down by Federal Judge.

Ryan SaavedraMay 12, 2023

Breaking News: Federal Judge Rules Age Limit for Handgun Purchases Unconstitutional

History and Tradition Prevail

In a landmark ruling, U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne declared federal laws that prohibit individuals under the age of 21 from purchasing handguns from federally licensed firearms dealers unconstitutional. Judge Payne cited the Supreme Court’s decision in N.Y. State Rifle & Pistol Assoc. v. Bruen, which expanded gun rights, as a basis for his ruling.

Fraser v. ATF

The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by John Corey Fraser against the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Fraser was denied the purchase of a handgun when he was 20 years old. The lawsuit challenged the constitutionality of the Gun Control Act of 1968 and federal regulations from the ATF that limit the sale of handguns to adults 21 years and older.

Optimism Despite Appeal

Elliott M. Harding, the attorney for Fraser, expressed optimism despite the expected appeal from the defendants. “We’re pleased the court ruled in favor of Mr. Fraser and the other named plaintiffs in such [a] well written and thorough decision,” he said. “Even though it ensures that future buyers can now purchase these firearms in the federal system, one that includes background checks and other requirements, we expect the defendants will appeal. Nevertheless, we remain optimistic that the decision will be affirmed in due course.”

Leftist Gun Control Groups Fume

Not everyone is happy with the ruling. Janet Carter at Everytown Law, a leftist gun control group, called the decision “dangerous” and “unconstitutional.” She added, “The federal law prohibiting federally licensed firearms dealers from selling handguns to individuals under the age of 21 is not just an essential tool for preventing gun violence, it is also entirely constitutional. The Court’s ruling will undoubtedly put lives at risk. It must be reversed.”