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As the chairman of the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, I stand firmly against the recent editorial advocating for age-based restrictions on the constitutional right of peaceable 18- to 20-year-old young adults to carry firearms for self-defense in Minnesota (“Isn’t it better to have this gun rule?” July 24). Our organization, along with our national partners on behalf of our young adult members, brought the lawsuit discussed in the editorial.
The position taken by the Star Tribune Editorial Board undermines both constitutional rights and practical considerations. It reminds us of the claim many made when the permit-to-carry law was passed in 2003 that “blood would run in the streets” with shootings by permit holders — a claim repeatedly proved to be false.
Here are five key reasons why this viewpoint deserves robust opposition from Minnesotans.
Second Amendment rights
The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to keep and bear arms, as upheld in several recent cases by the U.S. Supreme Court.
This essential right is not limited by age once someone reaches legal adulthood. Restricting 18- to 20-year-olds from carrying handguns infringes on their constitutionally protected freedoms. These young adults are considered mature enough to vote, serve in the military and enter contracts; therefore, they should also be trusted with the right to bear arms for self-defense.