by A Pennsylvania lawmaker is pushing for a new bill that would prohibit individuals under the age of 21 from purchasing semi-automatic assault rifles.
The legislation, introduced by Representative Melissa Shusterman, aims to close what she calls a dangerous loophole in gun laws that currently allows minors to legally obtain high-powered firearms.
What Happened
Rep. Melissa Shusterman announced her intent to introduce a bill that would ban the sale of semi-automatic assault rifles to anyone under 21 years old in Pennsylvania.
She shared the proposal in a memo addressed to fellow lawmakers, expressing concern over the ease with which young individuals can legally access such weapons.
Key Details
The proposed bill would:
- Ban individuals under 21 from purchasing semi-automatic assault rifles.
- Apply specifically to rifles that accept detachable magazines capable of holding more than five rounds.
- Address what Shusterman calls a “public safety crisis” fueled by outdated gun regulations.
The announcement follows ongoing national conversations around gun reform and mass shootings involving young perpetrators.
Reactions or Statements
Shusterman pointed to the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting as a driving factor for the bill.
Nikolas Cruz, who was 19 at the time, used a legally purchased semi-automatic rifle to kill 17 people and injure 17 others.
“This is unacceptable — we cannot continue to allow children to purchase weapons with such firepower,” Shusterman wrote in the memo.
She questioned why minors are barred from buying alcohol or cigarettes, but not weapons designed for combat use.
Investigation or What’s Next
The proposal is in its early stages, and Shusterman is seeking co-sponsors among her colleagues in the Pennsylvania General Assembly.
If advanced, the bill will go through committee review before potentially reaching the House floor for a vote.
Gun reform remains a divisive issue in Pennsylvania politics, with likely pushback expected from gun rights advocates.
FAQs
What does the proposed bill ban?
It prohibits anyone under 21 from purchasing semi-automatic assault rifles that accept detachable magazines with more than five rounds.
Why is this bill being proposed now?
The bill responds to continued concerns about mass shootings involving young perpetrators, particularly referencing the 2018 Parkland tragedy.
Who is backing the bill?
Rep. Melissa Shusterman is leading the effort and calling for support from other Pennsylvania lawmakers.
Would current gun owners under 21 be affected?
The memo only mentions purchase restrictions; it does not address possession or ownership by individuals under 21.
What’s next for the bill?
It must gather co-sponsors, be introduced officially, and pass through legislative committees before reaching the House floor for a vote.
Summary / Final Takeaway
A new bill proposed in Pennsylvania could make it illegal for individuals under 21 to purchase semi-automatic assault rifles.
Representative Shusterman argues the measure is necessary to prevent further tragedies and strengthen public safety laws.
