11th Circuit Court Upholds Florida’s Long Gun Purchase Ban for Young Adults

The recent ruling by the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has sparked significant discussion regarding Florida’s law prohibiting individuals aged 18 to 20 from purchasing long guns. This statute, which has been upheld once again, was originally enacted following the tragic events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

Attorney General Declines to Defend the Statute

In a surprising move, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has stated that his office will not defend the statute if the case is taken to the U.S. Supreme Court. Uthmeier expressed his belief on social media, asserting, “…I believe restricting the right of law-abiding adults to purchase firearms is unconstitutional.” He emphasized that young adults, who are of an age to serve in the military, should also have the right to defend themselves and their families.

Upon assuming office, I tasked my staff with reviewing Florida’s underlying law and whether it was consistent with the Second Amendment. Notwithstanding CA11’s opinion today, I believe restricting the right of law-abiding adults to purchase firearms is unconstitutional. The Fifth… — Attorney General James Uthmeier (@AGJamesUthmeier) March 14, 2025

Contrasting Rulings from Other Circuits

This ruling comes on the heels of a similar case from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which recently declared a federal law barring handgun purchases for individuals under 21 as a violation of the Second Amendment. The majority opinion in that case, authored by Chief Circuit Judge William Pryor, draws parallels between this law and historical firearm regulations, indicating that limiting gun access for minors aligns with longstanding traditions of firearm regulation.

Judge Pryor argued that the prevention of firearm access for younger individuals is historically supported, citing regulations dating back to the founding era, where restrictions aimed to mitigate risks posed by immature individuals.

Dissenting Opinions Raise Constitutional Questions

Despite the majority ruling, dissenting opinions highlight the complexity of the issue. Judge Andrew L. Brasher, along with other dissenters, stated that the absence of historical precedent for such a categorical ban casts doubt on its constitutionality. He asserted, “…the Second Amendment does not allow for a categorical ban on the ability of law-abiding adults to purchase a firearm for self-defense.” His arguments suggest that the majority’s conclusions do not align with broader interpretations of Second Amendment rights.

Implications for Future Legal Battles

The contrasting rulings from different circuit courts hint at a potential Supreme Court confrontation. The National Rifle Association (NRA) has indicated it may challenge Florida’s statute, promoting the belief that young adults should retain their right to bear arms. The possibility of a high-court review is increasing as the legal landscape surrounding firearm regulations continues to evolve.

For more details on the ruling and its implications, you can view the court’s decision here.

As the legal landscape unfolds, the debate over gun control and Second Amendment rights is likely to remain at the forefront of public discourse in Florida and beyond.

About the author: Dave Workman is a senior editor at TheGunMag.com and a proficient author with extensive knowledge of firearms regulations.