State Rep. Gaskey (R-Carver) bill to allow persons 18 and older to apply for a Firearm Identification Card and a License to Carry Firearms would essentially repeal an existing Massachusetts law restricting firearm access for under 21. What does the data say?
Numerous studies and research indicate that the prefrontal cortex, which plays a crucial role in mature decision-making, undergoes significant development until the age of 21. Furthermore, although individuals in the U.S. are legally recognized as adults at 18, their cognitive maturity typically aligns more closely with the age of 21. We anticipate an increase in gun injuries and fatalities if this law is reversed. SHV strongly opposes HD.4389, an act to repeal the ban on handgun ownership for adults age 18 through 20. |
