Firearm Laws & Litigation Articles - USA Carry

TALLAHASSEE, FL — A newly introduced bill in the Florida House of Representatives, HB 759, aims to roll back the minimum age requirement for purchasing firearms in the state from 21 to 18 years old. The bill, filed by Rep. Michelle Salzman (R-1) on February 19, 2025, is currently making its way through legislative committees and is expected to be a key issue in the ongoing debate over Second Amendment rights in Florida.

The proposed legislation amends Section 790.065 of the Florida Statutes, specifically lowering the minimum age for purchasing firearms to 18. This change would reverse part of the 2018 law that raised the minimum age to 21 in the aftermath of the Parkland school shooting. The bill also maintains the prohibition on licensed firearm dealers selling or transferring guns to anyone under 18, meaning that those underage restrictions remain intact.

Notably, the bill removes an exception that previously allowed certain groups—such as law enforcement officers, correctional officers, and active-duty military personnel—to purchase rifles and shotguns under the age of 21. Under HB 759, all law-abiding citizens 18 and older would regain the right to purchase firearms.

If passed, the bill would take effect July 1, 2025.

Governor Ron DeSantis addressed the issue during his State of the State address on March 4, 2025, urging lawmakers to strengthen Florida’s gun rights laws. In his speech, DeSantis criticized Florida for having “some of the weaker laws in the country” compared to other conservative states. He specifically pointed to red flag laws and restrictions on young adults purchasing firearms as areas needing reform.

“We need to be a strong Second Amendment state… Look back in instances where legislation may have been passed in recent years, such as shifting the burden on red flag laws, such as taking away the rights of young adults to be able to purchase firearms… Let’s get some positive reform done.”

The bill was referred to the Criminal Justice Subcommittee and the Judiciary Committee, where it received a favorable vote on March 12, 2025. It is now awaiting further debate in the Judiciary Committee before heading to a potential floor vote in the Florida House.

If the bill passes both chambers of the Florida Legislature and is signed by the governor, it would reinstate the pre-2018 age limit for purchasing firearms. Florida would then join several other states that allow legal adults (18+) to buy rifles, shotguns, and handguns without additional age-based restrictions.

HB 759 is a critical step toward restoring the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding young adults in Florida. Under current law, 18- to 20-year-olds—legal adults—are unjustly barred from purchasing firearms, despite the fact that they can vote, serve in the military, sign contracts, and be held fully responsible under the law. This bill seeks to correct that unconstitutional overreach and ensure that all Floridians enjoy their fundamental right to self-defense.

Opponents will predictably claim that restricting gun rights for young adults somehow makes the public safer. However, punishing law-abiding citizens for the actions of criminals is both unjust and ineffective. The vast majority of violent crime is committed by those who already disregard the law, not responsible gun owners. Stripping an entire group of adults of their right to bear arms does nothing to stop crime—it only makes it harder for them to protect themselves.

As HB 759 moves forward, it represents an important victory for gun rights advocates and a necessary correction to the misguided policies that have infringed on the rights of young adults for years. Florida has the opportunity to reaffirm its status as a strong pro-Second Amendment state, and this legislation is a major step in the right direction.

Read the original story: Florida Bill HB 759 Seeks to Lower Minimum Firearm Purchase Age to 18

SANTA FE, NM — A controversial new bill, Senate Bill 279 (SB 279), threatens to upend the rights of law-abiding gun owners across New Mexico by enacting some of the most restrictive firearm regulations in the nation. Introduced by a group of Democratic lawmakers, the Gas-Operated Semiautomatic Firearms Exclusion Act would ban the sale, transfer, and possession of nearly all semiautomatic firearms that use gas-operated cycling systems—which includes many of the most common rifles and handguns used for self-defense, hunting, and sport shooting.

If passed, this legislation would:

Failure to comply with these new restrictions could turn law-abiding gun owners into criminals overnight, with violations carrying misdemeanor or felony penalties.

Proponents of the bill argue that restricting access to semiautomatic firearms will reduce violent crime. However, the bill is a thinly veiled attempt to strip New Mexicans of their Second Amendment rights while doing nothing to address the state’s real crime problems.

State Representative Stefani Lord (R-District 22) condemned the bill as “the worst gun grab in the country,”pointing out that it bans firearms already owned by thousands of New Mexicans. She warned that the bill’s vague language could criminalize responsible gun owners and lead to selective enforcement.

Walter Bracken, owner of BMC Tactical in Albuquerque, also criticized the bill, highlighting its sweeping scope. “They want to ban anything gas-operated, including classic firearms like the M1 Carbine and Mini-14—guns that have been in civilian hands for decades. This bill is pure overreach.”

Walter Bracken, owner of @BMCTactical, explains the nonsensical SB 279 language that aims to criminalize a majority of commonly used self defense firearms.

SB 279 is in Senate Judiciary today!

Tune in AND contact your legislator via https://t.co/inarp3FJm1#nmpol #2A pic.twitter.com/PqRek5rMZt

While SB 279’s sponsors claim it does not ban previously owned firearms outright, it forces existing owners to register their guns with the state by January 1, 2026—a move that gun rights groups argue is just the first step toward confiscation.

Under the bill’s provisions:

This is a clear gun registry, something historically used in other countries as a prelude to outright confiscation.

New Mexico currently ranks as one of the most dangerous states in the country, with Albuquerque’s violent crime rate soaring over recent years. Yet, instead of cracking down on criminals, SB 279 targets law-abiding citizens who responsibly own and use firearms for protection.

Law enforcement agencies already struggle to enforce existing gun laws against violent offenders. Instead of addressing gang violence, drug trafficking, and repeat offenders, this bill diverts resources to tracking and policing legal gun owners.

SB 279 is currently in the New Mexico Senate Finance Committee, and gun owners still have time to voice their opposition. If this bill becomes law, it will set a dangerous precedent not just for New Mexico, but for the rest of the country.

The fight for gun rights in New Mexico is far from over, but SB 279 is a serious threat that cannot be ignored. Every New Mexican who values their right to self-defense, hunting, and shooting sports should stand up against this radical and unconstitutional legislation before it’s too late.

Read the original story: New Mexico’s SB 279 Seeks to Ban Most Semiautomatic Rifles, Handguns, and Standard Magazines

AUGUSTA, ME — A newly introduced bill in the Maine Legislature, LD 885 (HP 571), aims to amend existing firearm restrictions on school property by allowing certain concealed carry permit holders to legally carry and discharge firearms on school grounds.

The bill, titled An Act to Allow Certain Persons with a Permit to Carry Concealed Handguns to Possess or Discharge a Firearm on School Property, was introduced by Representative James White (R-Guilford) and co-sponsored by several Republican lawmakers.

Currently, Maine law prohibits firearms on school property, with exceptions for law enforcement, school-sanctioned programs, and other limited circumstances. LD 885 would create a new exemption for certain concealed carry permit holders, provided they meet the following criteria:

If passed, the bill would allow these individuals to lawfully carry and discharge a firearm on school property, marking a significant change to current regulations.

LD 885 has been the subject of debate within the Maine Legislature. Initially, the Maine House referred it to the Committee on Education and Cultural Affairs, while the Senate sent it to the Judiciary Committee, leading to a procedural non-concurrence. As of March 11, 2025, the bill remains tabled in the House as unfinished business, awaiting further consideration.

Supporters argue that responsible, law-abiding concealed carriers could serve as a deterrent to potential threats and enhance school security. They emphasize that concealed carry permit holders undergo background checks and training, ensuring they are vetted individuals.

Opponents, however, raise concerns about safety, citing the risks of introducing more firearms into school environments. Some worry that allowing armed individuals on campus—even legally—could complicate law enforcement responses during emergencies.

The bill’s future remains uncertain as it awaits further action in the Maine House and Senate. If it progresses through committee discussions and legislative votes, it could be signed into law or vetoed by the governor.

With school safety remaining a major issue nationwide, LD 885 is likely to continue sparking debate in Maine and beyond.

Read the original story: Maine Bill Seeks to Expand Firearm Rights for Concealed Carry Permit Holders on School Property

FRANKFORT, KY — The Kentucky Senate has passed a bill that would allow 18-year-olds to carry concealed firearms without a permit. Senate Bill 75, sponsored by Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, cleared the Senate floor on March 11, 2025, with a 26-11 vote. The bill now heads to the House, where it will be considered for final approval.

SB 75 lowers the minimum age for permitless concealed carry from 21 to 18, provided the individual is legally allowed to own a firearm. The bill does not change existing prohibitions on carrying in restricted areas such as schools, courthouses, and federal buildings.

Supporters argue that 18-year-olds, who can already legally own and openly carry firearms in Kentucky, should have the same right to carry concealed as those 21 and older. “Legal adults should not be denied their Second Amendment rights,” said Sen. Tichenor during Senate discussions.

Opponents, including some law enforcement officials and gun control advocates, express concerns that younger adults may lack the maturity and decision-making skills needed for responsible concealed carry. They also worry about potential safety risks in high-traffic areas like college campuses and entertainment districts.

After passing the Senate, the bill was sent to the House, where it received its first reading and was assigned to the Committee on Committees. If it clears committee review, SB 75 will proceed to a vote on the House floor. If passed, the bill would then be sent to Gov. Andy Beshear for approval or veto.

If SB 75 becomes law, Kentucky would join several other states—including Missouri and Mississippi—that allow 18-year-olds to carry concealed firearms without a permit.

For young adults who may soon gain the right to carry concealed, responsible gun ownership is key. Training, understanding self-defense laws, and practicing safe firearm handling are essential for carrying legally and responsibly.

Read the original story: Kentucky Senate Passes Bill to Lower Concealed Carry Age to 18, Moves to House for Consideration

PIERRE, SD — A bill that could significantly expand the right to carry concealed firearms on college campuses in South Dakota is now one step away from becoming law. Senate Bill 100, introduced by Senator Jim Voita, has cleared both chambers of the South Dakota Legislature and now awaits Governor Kristi Noem’s signature.

If signed, SB 100 would prevent public universities and technical colleges in South Dakota from imposing blanket bans on lawful concealed carry by permit holders. Specifically, the bill would allow individuals with enhanced, restricted enhanced, or reciprocal concealed carry permits to legally carry firearms on the grounds of public colleges and inside most campus buildings.

Under the legislation, the South Dakota Board of Regents, which oversees the state’s public universities, and the Board of Technical Education, which governs technical schools, would no longer be able to prohibit lawful concealed carry on campus. The bill covers not only firearms but also other self-defense tools, including stun guns, mace, and pepper spray.

According to the bill text, restrictions could still apply in certain specialized areas such as:

Outside of these designated areas, lawful permit holders would have the right to carry firearms and other self-defense tools anywhere else on campus, both indoors and outdoors.

Supporters of the bill argue that lawful gun owners should not be forced to leave their rights behind simply because they step onto a college campus. Proponents point out that South Dakota already requires enhanced permit holders to undergo additional training and background checks, ensuring that only responsible and vetted individuals would benefit from the expanded carry rights.

As reported by South Dakota Searchlight, Senator Voita emphasized that the bill is about protecting personal safety, noting, “Campuses aren’t immune from violence, and students and faculty shouldn’t be left defenseless just because they are pursuing higher education”.

With both legislative chambers approving the bill, the final decision now rests with Governor Kristi Noem. If she signs the bill into law, South Dakota would join a growing number of states that allow some form of campus carry.

This bill highlights the importance of understanding your local laws if you choose to carry a firearm for self-defense. Even in states that allow campus carry, there are often specific rules about where firearms are prohibited, how they must be stored, and what training is required. If you’re a student or faculty member with a valid permit, make sure you’re fully informed before carrying on campus. Responsible carry starts with knowing the law and committing to safe practices at all times.

Read the original story: South Dakota Advances Campus Carry Bill, Allowing Concealed Guns at Public Colleges and Universities

FRANKFORT, KY — A bill advancing through the Kentucky legislature would allow 18-year-olds to carry concealed firearms without a permit, lowering the current minimum age from 21. Senate Bill 75, sponsored by Sen. Lindsey Tichenor, passed the Senate Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection Committee on March 6, 2025, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.

The proposed legislation would amend Kentucky’s existing concealed carry law, which currently permits adults aged 21 or older to carry concealed deadly weapons without a license. Under SB 75, that age threshold would drop to 18, provided the individual is legally eligible to possess a firearm under both state and federal law.

Supporters of the bill, including Sen. Tichenor, argue that legal adults should have the right to defend themselves in the same way older adults do. “If an 18-year-old can vote, join the military, and get married, they should be able to protect themselves in public,” Tichenor stated during the committee hearing, according to WKYU Public Radio.

Currently, 18-year-olds in Kentucky can own firearms and openly carry them, but concealed carry—without a license—has been restricted to those 21 and older since Kentucky adopted permitless carry in 2019.

Critics of the bill, including gun control advocates and some law enforcement officials, express concern that younger adults lack the maturity and judgment to responsibly carry concealed firearms. Opponents have also raised concerns about potential risks on college campuses and in nightlife areas if the bill becomes law.

However, supporters counter that individuals under 21 who already qualify for concealed carry permits (such as members of the military) have shown they can responsibly carry firearms, and expanding this right to all legal adults is consistent with the Second Amendment.

Kentucky would not be the first state to lower the concealed carry age to 18. States like Missouri, Mississippi, and New Hampshire already allow permitless concealed carry for 18-year-olds. The trend is part of a broader push across conservative-led states to expand firearm rights, particularly for younger adults.

SB 75 now heads to the full Kentucky Senate for a vote. If approved, it will proceed to the House. If ultimately passed and signed into law, Kentucky would become one of a growing number of states lowering the concealed carry age to 18.

In any state where permitless carry is allowed, responsible firearms ownership and training remain essential, regardless of age. For 18-year-olds who may soon be eligible to carry concealed, it’s highly recommended to pursue professional firearms training, understand Kentucky’s self-defense laws, and practice safe handling at all times. Knowing when the law allows you to use force—and when it doesn’t—is crucial for any armed citizen.

Read the original story: Kentucky Senate Advances Bill to Lower Concealed Carry Age to 18

NEW YORK CITY, NY — Nine New York City residents who applied for concealed carry licenses have filed a federal lawsuit against the City of New York, accusing the city of unconstitutional delays in processing their applications. The case, Milani et al. v. New York City, was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and directly challenges the New York Police Department’s License Division over excessive, unreasonable, and unjustifiable processing times that plaintiffs say violate their Second Amendment rights.

The plaintiffs, who applied for various types of firearms licenses including concealed carry permits, say the city’s licensing process is plagued by administrative dysfunction, causing applications to languish for months—or even years. Despite New York State law requiring decisions on firearm license applications within six months, the complaint documents widespread violations of that legal deadline.

The lawsuit describes the licensing process as riddled with bureaucratic roadblocks:

The plaintiffs argue these persistent delays amount to a de facto denial of their right to keep and bear arms. The lawsuit claims the city is violating the Second and Fourteenth Amendments by obstructing lawful citizens from obtaining concealed carry licenses. The complaint seeks a court order forcing the city to comply with the six-month deadline, as well as damages and legal fees.

This lawsuit emerges after the landmark 2022 Supreme Court decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, which struck down New York’s restrictive “proper cause” requirement for concealed carry licenses. Following Bruen, New Yorkers flooded the NYPD’s License Division with concealed carry applications, but this lawsuit claims that instead of streamlining the process, the city has doubled down on unnecessary delays and administrative inefficiency.

For residents seeking to lawfully carry a concealed firearm for self-defense, these delays could have serious consequences. Being forced to wait more than a year leaves applicants unarmed and vulnerable while their paperwork drags through a broken system. Although background checks and verification are expected, arbitrary delays are not.

If the plaintiffs succeed, this case could reshape the way New York City handles concealed carry license applications—potentially forcing the city to adopt a more efficient, transparent, and timely process that better respects constitutional rights.

The plaintiffs, along with supporters from the New York 2A community, have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help fund this critical legal battle. The campaign, titled “Support the New York 2A Community’s Legal Battle,” aims to raise awareness and gather financial support to sustain the lawsuit as it progresses through the courts. Those who want to stand with these plaintiffs and support their fight for timely access to their constitutional rights can contribute directly at: Support the New York 2A Community’s Legal Battle.

This case has the potential to set a vital precedent for concealed carry applicants not just in New York City, but across the country where bureaucratic delays are used to obstruct lawful gun ownership.

Read the original story: NYC Concealed Carry Applicants File Federal Lawsuit Over Extreme Licensing Delays

CHEYENNE, WY — In a significant victory for Second Amendment advocates, Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has allowed House Enrolled Act 0024 (House Bill 0172) to become law without his signature, paving the way for the repeal of many of the state’s restrictive gun-free zones. The new law, set to take effect on July 1, 2025, expands where law-abiding citizens with a valid concealed carry permit can legally carry their firearms — including in public schools, colleges, and government buildings.

For years, gun-free zones have prevented responsible, law-abiding citizens from exercising their right to self-defense in critical places like public schools and government meetings — locations that have, unfortunately, been targeted by criminals who ignore gun laws altogether. With the passage of HB0172, permit holders in Wyoming will no longer be forced to disarm when entering many public spaces, leveling the playing field and allowing them to protect themselves and others should the need arise.

Under the new law, individuals with a Wyoming-issued concealed carry permit will be allowed to carry in:

The bill also creates penalties for public entities that unlawfully deny entry to a permit holder carrying lawfully, reinforcing the principle that the right to bear arms doesn’t stop at the door of a government building.

In his letter explaining why he allowed the bill to pass without his signature, Governor Gordon reaffirmed his personal support for repealing gun-free zones. However, he criticized the legislature for cutting local governments out of the decision-making process, arguing that school districts, colleges, and local governments should have more say in setting policies for their facilities.

While Gordon’s concern about local control reflects a common debate over the balance between state and local authority, his decision not to veto the bill sends a clear signal: repealing gun-free zones and restoring self-defense rights is a priority the people of Wyoming strongly support.

The repeal of these restrictions recognizes what many in the self-defense community have long argued — gun-free zones do nothing to stop criminals and only disarm the people who follow the law. Time and again, mass shootings and violent attacks have taken place in so-called gun-free zones, where law-abiding citizens were left defenseless.

With HB0172 becoming law, Wyoming is taking a strong stand for the rights of responsible gun owners and reinforcing the belief that self-defense should not be restricted by arbitrary location-based bans. Permit holders have already demonstrated they are law-abiding and trained to carry safely, and this law ensures they won’t have to disarm at the places they may need protection the most.

This new law highlights the importance of removing barriers that prevent lawful self-defense. Criminals, by definition, do not follow signage or laws prohibiting firearms. Gun-free zones only impact responsible citizens who are committed to following the law — leaving them vulnerable and unable to respond effectively if a threat emerges. By empowering lawful concealed carriers to protect themselves wherever they go, Wyoming is reinforcing both personal freedom and public safety.

Read the original story: Wyoming Governor Allows Repeal of Gun-Free Zones Bill to Become Law Without Signature

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) has reintroduced the Second Amendment for Every Registrable Voter (SAFER) Act, H.R. 1643, which seeks to lower the minimum age for purchasing a handgun from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) from 21 to 18. The bill, filed in the 119th Congress, aims to align federal law with constitutional principles by allowing legal adults to exercise their Second Amendment rights without restriction based on age.

The SAFER Voter Act would amend Section 922(b)(1) of Title 18 of the U.S. Code, removing the restriction that prevents individuals under 21 from purchasing a handgun through an FFL. Currently, federal law allows 18-year-olds to vote, serve in the military, and be legally responsible for contracts and other obligations, yet prohibits them from purchasing a handgun from licensed dealers.

Rep. Massie, a strong advocate for gun rights, emphasized the inconsistencies in current federal law, particularly regarding young adults’ ability to defend themselves.

“Why should a 20-year-old mom be denied the right to defend herself?” Massie asked when announcing the bill.

While individuals aged 18-20 can legally own a handgun in most states—acquiring one through private sales or as a gift—federal law restricts them from purchasing one from an FFL. The SAFER Voter Act seeks to remove this limitation.

Gun rights advocates argue that the current restriction is unconstitutional and unjustified, as the Second Amendment does not specify age limits. Additionally, multiple court cases have challenged age-based gun laws, with some rulings questioning their constitutionality under the Bruen decision’s precedent.

If passed, H.R. 1643 would provide 18- to 20-year-olds with the same access to legally purchasing handguns from FFLs as those 21 and older. However, individual state laws would still apply, meaning some states could maintain higher age restrictions.

The SAFER Voter Act highlights a key issue in self-defense rights—ensuring that all law-abiding adults have equal access to firearms for protection. Young adults, particularly college students, single parents, and those living independently, often face the same risks as older adults but are currently restricted in their ability to legally purchase a handgun.

As this bill moves through the legislative process, it is expected to face opposition from gun control advocates but will likely receive strong support from Second Amendment organizations and conservative lawmakers.

We will continue to track H.R. 1643 and provide updates on its progress in Congress.

Read the original story: Bill to Lower Handgun Purchase Age to 18 Reintroduced by Rep. Thomas Massie

PHILADELPHIA, PA — In a major victory for Second Amendment advocates, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit has denied a petition for en banc rehearing in Lara v. Commissioner of Pennsylvania State Police, allowing its previous ruling to stand. The decision reaffirms that Pennsylvania’s restriction on 18-to-20-year-olds carrying concealed firearms is unconstitutional under the Second Amendment.

Despite efforts from 19 state attorneys general to challenge the ruling, the Third Circuit declined to revisit the case, solidifying the precedent that law-abiding young adults cannot be arbitrarily denied their right to carry firearms for self-defense.

The Lara case challenged Pennsylvania’s law, which generally restricted adults under 21 from obtaining concealed carry permits and imposed additional prohibitions during declared states of emergency. The Third Circuit had previously ruled in favor of the plaintiffs, recognizing that 18-to-20-year-olds are part of “the People” protected by the Second Amendment.

With the court refusing to rehear the case, that ruling remains in effect, securing the right of young adults to carry concealed firearms for self-defense. This outcome also calls into question similar restrictions in other states, potentially paving the way for broader challenges against age-based firearm bans.

While a majority of the circuit judges declined to revisit the decision, a group of dissenting judges—led by Judge Cheryl Ann Krause—argued that the court should have reconsidered the case. In a strongly worded dissent, Judge Krause contended that Pennsylvania’s law had historical precedent, citing various 19th-century regulations.

However, the court’s decision to deny the rehearing aligns with the Supreme Court’s ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Ass’n v. Bruen (2022), which requires modern gun laws to be consistent with historical traditions at the time of the Second Amendment’s ratification in 1791. The original panel had already determined that there was no Founding-era tradition of restricting 18-to-20-year-olds from carrying firearms, making Pennsylvania’s law unconstitutional.

This ruling could have nationwide implications, as many states still impose similar age-based restrictions on firearm carry. The Third Circuit’s decision could serve as a blueprint for challenging other laws that unjustly restrict the Second Amendment rights of legal adults.

Furthermore, this ruling calls into question federal restrictions that prohibit individuals under 21 from purchasing handguns from licensed dealers. The logic applied in Lara—that young adults cannot be arbitrarily excluded from their constitutional rights—may set the stage for future legal challenges at the federal level.

With the Third Circuit denying en banc review, the only remaining option for Pennsylvania is to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. Given the high court’s recent emphasis on historical tradition in gun cases—including Bruen and United States v. Rahimi (2024)—Pennsylvania would face an uphill battle in trying to justify its restrictions.

If the Supreme Court declines to take up the case, the Third Circuit’s ruling will stand, further reinforcing that 18-to-20-year-olds cannot be denied their right to carry firearms for self-defense.

The denial of en banc review is a win for Second Amendment rights and a significant step toward restoring full constitutional protections for young adults. This case highlights the shifting legal landscape following Bruen, as courts continue to strike down unconstitutional gun restrictions.

Gun owners—especially those in states with similar age-based carry bans—should watch for potential challenges in their own jurisdictions. This ruling could signal the beginning of a broader movement to restore full Second Amendment rights to all law-abiding adults, regardless of age.

Read the original story: Pennsylvania’s 21+ Concealed Carry Age Restriction Stays Overturned as Third Circuit Denies Rehearing