Florida GOP Revives Bid to Lower Long-Gun Purchase Age From 21 to 18

Florida Republicans are dusting off a familiar fight: lowering the age to buy long guns from 21 to 18—a measure that stalled before but may get new wind in its sails for the 2026 session.

What’s Back in Play

Florida’s current law requires someone to be 21 to buy rifles and shotguns, while federal rules already bar handgun sales to those under 21. GOP Chair Evan Power argues it’s about fairness: if 18‑year‑olds can be drafted and serve, they should be able to buy guns.

Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, a staunch Second Amendment advocate, is fully backing the push—adding political heft thanks to his prior Senate experience carrying similar bills. Gov. Ron DeSantis is also on board.

Roadblocks Remain

Despite repeated successes in the House, similar legislation continues to get stuck in the Senate. Senate President Ben Albritton has made it clear the issue is “dead for now.”

Recent tragedies are influencing perceptions, too—like the Florida State University shooting, which has renewed calls from Democratic lawmakers to maintain the 21‑year threshold.

What Supporters and Critics Say

• Supporters: Republicans argue that those old enough for adult responsibilities—like serving in the military, getting licenses, or entering contracts—should have matching rights to firearms.

• Opponents: Activists, survivors of Parkland, and FSU students insist that aging the purchase requirement has saved lives. They see rollback as tone-deaf to repeated tragedies.