Federal Judge Upholds Massachusetts Ban on Firearms for 18-20 Year-Olds

In a 23-page opinion, United States District Judge George A. O’Toole, Jr., a Clinton appointee, upheld Massachusetts’ prohibition on handgun and semiautomatic rifle ownership by adults aged 18 to 20, deeming it consistent with constitutional principles. He highlighted that the statute mirrors historic militia regulation and that the state already allows such individuals to possess firearms through a valid Massachusetts FID card, as shown by Escher’s ownership.

The law also provides exceptions for military service and permits temporary, supervised use for training or hunting. The ruling resolves challenges brought by the Second Amendment Foundation and allied groups demanding a “License to Carry” for this age group. By contrast, a Florida appellate court recently ruled that the Second Amendment prevents restricting concealed carry to those 21 and older. The Massachusetts decision maintains current age-based gun limits for young adults.