SAFER Voter Act: Handgun Age Limit Dropped to 18

The "Second Amendment For Every Registrable Voter Act," or SAFER Voter Act, makes a significant change to who can buy handguns in the U.S. This bill straight-up removes the age restriction that kept people under 21 from buying handguns and handgun ammo from licensed dealers.

What's Actually Changing?

The core of the SAFER Voter Act is about changing who can legally buy a handgun. Right now, you need to be 21 to buy a handgun from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). This bill gets rid of that rule. Specifically, it amends title 18 of the United States Code, section 922(b)(1), so that the age limit no longer applies. It also tweaks section 922(c)(1), which means 18-year-olds can buy any type of firearm, not just shotguns or rifles.

Real-World Rollout

Let's break down what this could look like in everyday life:

• College Students: An 18-year-old college freshman could legally purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer. Before this, they'd be limited to rifles or shotguns, or have to go through private sales (depending on state laws).
• Young Professionals: A 20-year-old starting their first job and living alone could now buy a handgun for self-defense, where previously they couldn't from a licensed dealer.
• Retailers: Gun stores could see an increase in sales, as a new demographic is now eligible to buy handguns. Section 2 directly changes what they're allowed to sell and to whom.

Potential Challenges

While the bill aims to expand Second Amendment rights, there are practical concerns. Allowing 18-20 year olds to purchase handguns from FFL's may be problematic. Handguns are more concealable, and this demographic has higher rates of impulsive behavior and involvement in violent crime, making them more prone to gun violence, suicide, and accidental shootings. The SAFER Voter Act could make it easier for those under 21 to use the handguns for illegal purposes. It could also increase the likelihood of straw purchases, where legal-age buyers purchase handguns for those under 21.

The Big Picture

The SAFER Voter Act directly links Second Amendment rights to voting age, essentially saying that if you're old enough to vote, you're old enough to buy any type of firearm. It's a straightforward change, but one with potentially wide-ranging effects on who can own a handgun and how easily they can get one.