A DOJ legal opinion concludes the federal ban on FFL handgun sales to law-abiding adults between 18 and 20 violates the Second Amendment .
Well, folks, grab your popcorn because the Justice Department has just thrown a curveball into the gun control debate. On September 17th, the Office of Legal Counsel decided that banning handgun sales to adults aged 18-20 is about as constitutional as a three-legged dog in a race. Yes, you heard that right! According to their latest opinion, restricting handgun sales to this age group violates the Second Amendment.
Now, before you start picturing young adults marching into gun stores like they’re at a candy shop, let’s break this down a little. The opinion is based on the premise that the Second Amendment doesn’t just magically disappear when you hit the ripe old age of 18. It’s a pretty bold claim, especially considering that many states have their own laws regarding firearm ownership for those under 21.
The Gun Control Act of 1968, which has been the law of the land for decades, is now facing some serious scrutiny. You see, this law has been interpreted to mean that anyone under 21 can’t buy handguns. It’s as if lawmakers thought that turning 21 would magically imbue a person with the wisdom of the ages—or at least the ability to handle a firearm responsibly. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t!
This opinion from the DOJ raises a ton of questions, not just about the legality of existing regulations, but also about what it means for young adults who are already navigating the complexities of adulthood. I mean, you can vote, you can join the military, and you can even get a tattoo of your ex’s name—but buy a handgun? Nope! Sorry, buddy!
Now, don’t go rushing to your local gun shop just yet. This opinion doesn’t mean that gun sales to 18-20-year-olds are going to start happening overnight. Legal battles are likely on the horizon as states and federal agencies grapple with this new interpretation. So, while the DOJ may have given a thumbs-up to young adults owning handguns, the reality is that the legal system is about to get very complicated, very quickly.
For those who are worried about the implications of this ruling, it’s worth noting that the DOJ’s opinion is just that—an opinion. It’s not a law, and it doesn’t change the current regulations immediately. States still have the right to enforce their own laws, which means that some young adults may still find themselves out of luck when trying to purchase a handgun.
In conclusion, this opinion from the DOJ is a significant development in the ongoing gun control debate. Whether you’re a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment or believe in more stringent gun control measures, one thing is clear: this is a conversation that’s far from over. So, keep your ears to the ground and your eyes peeled; the next chapter in this saga is just around the corner. And who knows? Maybe one day soon, we’ll be able to buy a handgun with the same ease as ordering a pizza. Just remember to check your local laws first—because nothing ruins a pizza party like a legal debacle!
Inspired by: “DOJ Says Federal Handgun Ban for Adults Under 21 Is Unconstitutional” (r/Politics)