‘Gun bill’ moves to the Senate

Original publication: FAMUAN

The Florida House of Representatives has passed a bill aiming to lower the minimum age for purchasing firearms from 21 to 18, reversing a key provision of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act enacted after the Parkland school shooting.

House Bill 759 was approved on Wednesday and now awaits consideration in the Senate.

The proposed change has elicited mixed reactions among Florida residents.

Peter Huynh, a business marketing student at Florida State University, expressed ambivalence about the bill. “I see both sides of the argument,” Huynh said. “At 18, individuals can serve in the military and vote, so it seems consistent to allow them to purchase firearms. However, considering the incidents that led to raising the age to 21, we should be cautious about making changes that could impact public safety.”

Conversely, Joe Crosby, an entrepreneur based in Jacksonville, supports the legislation. “I believe that, regardless of age, everyone deserves the right to protect themselves,” Crosby said. “Lowering the age back to 18 aligns with other rights and responsibilities granted at that age. It’s about ensuring that law-abiding citizens have the means to defend themselves if necessary.”

Jacksonville, like many metropolitan areas in Florida, has faced challenges related to gun violence. In 2023, Florida reported an estimated 3,300 gun-related deaths, encompassing homicides, suicides and accidental shootings. While Jacksonville experienced a significant decrease in homicides in 2024, reporting the lowest numbers in two decades, the broader context of firearm-related incidents remains a concern for many residents.

Some advocacy groups, including student-led organizations and gun reform coalitions, have voiced strong opposition to the bill. They argue that lowering the age could increase the risk of firearms ending up in the wrong hands and potentially lead to more tragedies.

The bill’s future in the Senate remains uncertain. Senate President Ben Albritton has expressed ambivalence, acknowledging his commitment to the Second Amendment while recalling the emotional impact of visiting Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School after the shooting. He described the proposal as “not easy” and indicated he is still contemplating his stance.

As the debate continues, stakeholders on both sides remain deeply invested in the outcome, reflecting the ongoing national conversation about gun rights and public safety. With public opinion divided, the coming weeks will be critical in determining the bill’s fate in Florida’s legislative session.