BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — A Broward County judge has struck down Florida’s law prohibiting concealed carry for individuals under 21, declaring it unconstitutional. The decision, reported by the South Florida Sun Sentinel, challenges a key provision of the state’s post-Parkland gun reform efforts.
Issued by Broward Circuit Judge Tarlika Nunez-Navarro, she found that the state’s restriction violates the Second Amendment rights of 18- to 20-year-olds. The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by gun rights groups challenging the 2023 law, which was part of a broader permitless carry measure passed by the Florida Legislature. The Sun Sentinel reports that the judge emphasized the lack of historical precedent for such an age-based restriction.
Our news partners said the judge’s ruling does not immediately invalidate the law statewide. Instead, it applies only to the specific case brought before the court. However, the decision could set the stage for broader legal challenges and potential appeals that may ultimately reach higher courts.
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The Sun Sentinel notes that the law in question was enacted as part of a sweeping change to Florida’s gun regulations, allowing permitless concealed carry for those 21 and older. The plaintiffs argued that the age restriction unfairly excluded legal adults from exercising their constitutional rights, a position the judge agreed with in her ruling.
As reported by the Sun Sentinel, the state is expected to appeal the decision. In the meantime, the ruling adds to the ongoing national debate over the balance between gun rights and public safety, particularly as it pertains to young adults.
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