Justice Department Rules Handgun Sale Ban for Under-21s Unconstitutional

WHO:

NY Post - The Justice Department is the organization involved in the ruling.

ABC News Politics - The ruling pertains to licensed firearms dealers and young adults under age 21.

WHAT:

NY Post - The Justice Department states that the federal ban on selling handguns to 18- to 20-year-olds is unconstitutional.

ABC News Politics - The federal law banning licensed firearms dealers from selling handguns to young adults under age 21 is deemed unconstitutional and cannot be enforced.

CBS News Politics - The Justice Department released a legal opinion concluding that the prohibition on selling handguns to individuals aged 18 to 20 is unconstitutional.

WHERE:

CBS News Politics - The ruling applies to the United States, specifically regarding federal law.

WHY:

NY Post - The Justice Department's conclusion indicates a legal interpretation that the ban infringes on constitutional rights.

HOW:

CBS News Politics - The Justice Department's conclusion is based on a new legal opinion regarding the enforcement of the federal law.

(UPDATED September 19, 2026 00:00 UTC)

The Justice Department has ruled that the federal ban on selling handguns to individuals aged 18 to 20 is unconstitutional and cannot be enforced. This decision specifically impacts licensed firearms dealers across the United States, as the Justice Department's legal opinion suggests that the prohibition infringes on constitutional rights. As a result, the ruling marks a significant shift in the legal landscape surrounding firearm sales to young adults.