The age limit has been increased.
A federal judge in Colorado has upheld the state’s law that requires individuals to be at least 21 years old to purchase firearms. The decision came after a lawsuit was filed by Rocky Mountain Gun Owners and two people under 21 who challenged the law, claiming it violated their Second Amendment rights. However, the judge relied on a prior ruling by the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, which stated that age-based restrictions on gun purchases do not fall under constitutional protections for gun ownership.
The law does allow exceptions for active-duty military personnel and peace officers buying firearms while on duty. Colorado’s governor, Jared Polis, praised the ruling, highlighting that the state’s law aims to promote responsible gun ownership and improve public safety. The state recently expanded the age restriction from just handguns to include rifles and shotguns as well.
This ruling contrasts with other court decisions, including a 2022 Supreme Court case that struck down New York’s restrictions on carrying concealed weapons. President Biden criticized that ruling for limiting states’ abilities to regulate firearms to protect their citizens. Additionally, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals recently overturned a federal rule banning firearm sales to people under 21, arguing that young adults historically had gun rights.
Several states have raised the minimum age to purchase firearms, though the restrictions vary by state and type of weapon. Some states limit the age increase to handguns, while others include all types of guns. These differing laws and court rulings reflect the ongoing national debate over gun rights and public safety.
Overall, the Colorado case highlights the tension between gun control measures aimed at reducing violence and the legal interpretations of constitutional rights related to firearms ownership, with courts across the country taking varying approaches.
