NRA vs. Florida Showdown

The NRA challenges Florida’s attempt at gun control

The shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School has left many in the country calling for gun control measures. In an answer to this call, Florida, the state where the shooting occurred, has passed new gun control legislation. The new law raises the minimum age to buy rifles from 18 to 21, creates a waiting period for long guns, bans bump stocks, and allows teachers to carry handguns. GOP governor Rick Scott surprisingly signed the bill into law. Gov. Scott has been a fierce opponent of gun control in the past. Proponents of gun control, including students of Stoneman Douglas High School, have called the law a “baby step” in the right direction.

Ellie Klee
Lafayette’s rock bears a message of solidarity after the Parkland shooting.

However, the law is not without its opponents. The National Rifle Association has filed a lawsuit against Florida because of the proposed law. They are stating that the proposed minimum age requirement is infringing on the Second Amendment right to bear arms. This action is in keeping with the NRA’s fierce opposition to gun control and its practice of donating thousands of dollars to GOP lawmakers to support their agenda.

The law passed in Florida was a step towards gun control that many support. However, the NRA is putting up a fierce opposition.