DOJ Declares Federal Handgun Ban on Young Adults Unconstitutional

Liberty Check

• The DOJ has declared federal restrictions blocking 18-to-20-year-olds from purchasing handguns unconstitutional
• The ruling protects Second Amendment rights for law-abiding young adults
• The decision strikes down an overreach of federal power targeting constitutional rights

The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel has concluded that the federal ban preventing licensed firearms dealers from selling handguns to law-abiding adults between the ages of 18 and 20 violates the Constitution.

The opinion finds that the prohibition lacks historical grounding and improperly restricts the rights of young Americans who are otherwise recognized as adults for most other legal purposes.

Justice Department Concludes Federal Ban on Handgun Sales to 18 to 20-Year-Olds is Unconstitutional and Cannot Be Criminally Enforcedhttps://t.co/m4EDOqvPHH

— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) September 18, 2026

“Prohibiting licensed dealers from selling handguns to law-abiding adults ages 18 to 20 is unlawful under the U.S. Constitution.”

The decision aligns with the Supreme Court’s recent emphasis on historical tradition when reviewing gun regulations.

By overturning the restriction, the DOJ removes a barrier that disproportionately impacts young adults exercising their Second Amendment rights.

“The Constitution must be defended.”