H.R.1643 - Second Amendment For Every Registrable Voter Act; SAFER Voter Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 1643, also known as the "Second Amendment For Every Registrable Voter Act" or the "SAFER Voter Act," proposes to lower the minimum age to purchase a handgun from a Federal firearms licensee from 21 to 18 years old. The bill amends sections of Title 18 of the United States Code related to firearms regulations. It was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 27, 2025, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
The bill aims to align handgun purchasing age with voting age. Proponents argue this change would uphold Second Amendment rights for young adults.
The bill is sponsored by Mr. Massie and cosponsored by Ms. Boebert, Mr. Clyde, Mr. Collins, Ms. Greene of Georgia, Ms. Hageman, Mr. LaMalfa, Mr. Perry, Mr. Roy, Mrs. Spartz, Mr. Weber of Texas, and Mr. Gill of Texas.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 1643 would allow 18 to 20-year-olds to legally purchase handguns from licensed dealers. This change could increase gun ownership among this age group.
The change may also impact crime rates and public safety. The effects on these areas are subject to debate and depend on various factors.
Potential Benefits
- Expanded Second Amendment Rights: 18-20 year olds would have easier access to handguns, aligning with their right to bear arms.
- Equal Treatment: Aligns handgun purchasing age with voting age and other adult rights.
- Self-Defense: Provides young adults with more options for self-defense.
- Reduced Black Market Activity: Legalizing handgun sales could reduce illegal purchases.
- Personal Autonomy: Empowers young adults to make their own decisions regarding firearm ownership.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Gun Violence: Lowering the age could lead to more gun-related incidents involving young adults.
- Impulsivity Concerns: Some argue 18-20 year olds may be more prone to impulsive behavior, increasing the risk of misuse.
- Mental Health Risks: Increased access to handguns could pose risks for young adults struggling with mental health issues.
- School Safety: Could increase the risk of guns entering schools and universities.
- Accidental Shootings: Potential for more accidental shootings due to inexperience.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Second Amendment is a central point of contention. Proponents argue that restricting handgun sales to individuals aged 18-20 infringes upon their Second Amendment rights, citing the right of the people to keep and bear arms. They argue that since 18-year-olds can vote, serve in the military, and enter contracts, they should also have the right to purchase handguns.
Opponents may argue for reasonable restrictions on firearm ownership, referencing the need for a "well-regulated Militia" and emphasizing public safety concerns. They might point to the government's power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8) as justification for age-based restrictions on firearm sales.
The Supreme Court's interpretation of the Second Amendment, particularly in cases like District of Columbia v. Heller and McDonald v. City of Chicago, would be relevant in determining the constitutionality of this bill.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).