Colorado Judge Blocks New Law Raising Gun Purchase Age to 21
A federal judge in Colorado has issued a preliminary injunction blocking the enforcement of a new law that would raise the age to purchase a gun from 18 to 21. The ruling comes following a legal challenge by a gun rights group, Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, who argued that the law violated Second Amendment rights. U.S. District Judge Philip Brimmer referenced a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that expanded Second Amendment rights as he concluded that the lawsuit brought by the group would likely succeed. The state is now barred from enforcing the law until the case is resolved.
The law, signed by Democratic Governor Jared Polis in April, was one of four gun control bills aimed at addressing the rise in violent crime and mass shootings. The legislation sought to prevent individuals between the ages of 18 and 20 from purchasing rifles and shotguns. While a federal law already prohibits licensed firearms dealers from selling handguns to those under 21, this ban has also been challenged in light of the Supreme Court decision.
The discrepancy in age limits for different types of firearms has been criticized as a loophole by a spokesperson for Governor Polis. Conor Cahill, the spokesperson, stated that having the same age requirements for pistols and rifles would promote responsible gun ownership, aligning with the Governor’s goal of making Colorado one of the safest states in the country.
Rocky Mountain Gun Owners’ executive director, Taylor Rhodes, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, claiming that the group had warned Colorado lawmakers that their efforts would be struck down. Rhodes emphasized their commitment to fighting against any unconstitutional anti-gun laws and ensuring that they are overturned.
The ruling by Judge Brimmer raises concerns about potential implications for firearms restrictions in other states. Last year’s Supreme Court decision in a New York case altered the test used by lower courts to evaluate challenges to gun laws, potentially jeopardizing existing firearms regulations across the country.
This development in Colorado adds to the ongoing debate surrounding gun control measures and highlights the need for a balanced approach that safeguards constitutional rights while addressing public safety concerns. As the case progresses, it will be crucial to consider differing perspectives and opinions to ensure a comprehensive examination of the issues at hand.
