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Senate Democrats table bill raising the age to buy guns

Delaware Public Media

Democrats in the State Senate tabled legislation requiring gun buyers to be at least 21 years old.

State law already mandates a person be 21 to purchase a handgun. Under this bill, the same would apply to raises rifles and ammunition. Shotguns are not included in the change.

The measure also makes exceptions for 18-year-old members of the Armed Forces, law enforcement and those with conceal carry permits.

But Senate Minority Leader Gary Simpson (R-Milford) wants to add 18-year-olds with valid hunting permits to that list. He says that could bring some Republican support for the bill.

“I don’t think without the amendment this bill has a shot of passing," he said. "I think it’ll be close based on party lines. But I think that the public has spoken very loudly, at least in my district. I’m just not seeing anyone in favor of this bill or Senate Bill 163.”

SB 163 bans assault-style weapons. It’s currently in committee.

The age restriction bill’s sponsor, House Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf (D-Rehoboth), said he opposes Simpson’s amendment.

The bill passed the House last week mostly along party lines.

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