ORLANDO, Fla. — Republican Rep. Bobby Payne has introduced a bill in an effort to lower the age requirement for purchasing a gun in Florida from 21 to 18. This move comes after a similar bill was filed in 2023 and was backed by House Speaker Paul Renner. Proponents of the bill, including fellow Republican Rep. Randy Fine, argue that 19 and 20-year-olds should have the right to purchase firearms as they are considered adults.
The proposed change would reverse part of a law passed following the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018. The shooter, who was 19 years old at the time, used a semi-automatic rifle to kill 17 students and faculty members. In response, the state legislature and then-Gov. Rick Scott approved a law increasing the minimum age to purchase a firearm to 21.
On the other hand, Democratic Party Rep. Anna Eskamani opposes the bill, citing the tragic events at Parkland as a reason for not lowering the age requirement. According to Eskamani, the Parkland shooting serves as one of many examples of the potential consequences of lowering the age for firearm purchases.
In another perspective, Republican Rep. Randy Fine emphasizes the importance of mental health in relation to gun violence. He refers to a recent mass shooting at a school in Iowa involving a 17-year-old gunman and suggests addressing mental health issues as a critical factor in preventing such incidents.
As of Jan. 6, 2024, the National Gun Archive reported five mass shootings in the United States. One of the shootings in Iowa resulted in one fatality and five injuries, with the perpetrator being a 17-year-old. The debate around lowering the age for purchasing firearms continues as the proposed bill undergoes review by lawmakers.
In summary, the proposed bill aims to lower the age requirement for buying a gun in Florida from 21 to 18, sparking debates among lawmakers regarding its potential impact on public safety and the prevention of gun violence.