Justice Department Says Federal Handgun Ban for Adults Under 21 Is Unconstitutional
The Justice Department has concluded that a federal restriction barring licensed firearms dealers from selling handguns to adults under 21 is unconstitutional and will no longer defend or enforce it.
Key Facts
- —The Justice Department has found a federal restriction on handgun sales to adults under 21 to be unconstitutional.
- —The department says it will no longer defend or enforce the measure.
- —The decision reflects a change in the federal government's position on who may lawfully purchase a handgun.
The Justice Department has determined that a federal restriction barring licensed firearms dealers from selling handguns to adults between the ages of 18 and 20 is unconstitutional, and it will no longer defend or enforce the measure.
The department's conclusion means the federal government does not intend to enforce the provision or defend it in court. The decision marks a shift in how the federal government approaches who may lawfully purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer.
References
- 1.Reporting on the Justice Department announcement — supports the determination that the under-21 handgun sales restriction is unconstitutional and that the department will not defend or enforce it.
The article presents the Justice Department's determination in neutral, factual language with no loaded terms or editorializing. The headline accurately reflects the substance, though it says 'under 21' while the body specifies ages 18-20; these are equivalent and consistent. The core claims (the restriction is deemed unconstitutional, the department will not defend or enforce it, and the decision marks a shift) are supported by the references. This is a factual government-action story where the DOJ's position is the news event itself; the absence of opposing commentary does not constitute unfair representation, as no contested claim is presented. No sensationalism detected. No prior review issues to address.
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