Politics

DOJ says federal ban on handgun sales to young adults is unconstitutional

A new legal opinion suggests federal prosecutors are likely to stop charging dealers selling handguns to adults aged 18 to 20.

Updated Sep 19, 2026 · 02:28 UTC2 reports

The short version

The Justice Department issued a legal opinion concluding that the 1968 federal ban on licensed dealers selling handguns to adults under 21 violates the Second Amendment.[ABC News · CBS News]
Though non-binding, the guidance is expected to cause federal prosecutors to refrain from filing felony charges against licensed dealers selling handguns to adults aged 18 to 20.[CBS News]
Federal appeals courts remain divided on the constitutionality of age limits, and the Supreme Court has not yet ruled on the federal restriction.[ABC News]

The Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel issued an opinion stating the federal ban on licensed handgun sales to adults under 21 violates the Second Amendment.[ABC News · CBS News]
The law prohibiting licensed dealers from selling handguns to individuals under 21 originates from the Gun Control Act of 1968.[CBS News]
Federal appeals courts are split on the constitutionality of handgun age restrictions.[ABC News · CBS News]

The non-binding opinion creates uncertainty regarding future enforcement, though it is expected to prompt prosecutors to refrain from filing felony charges against licensed dealers.[CBS News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.