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HF 416

Age of eligibility established to apply for permit to carry pistol at 18 years old.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Franson and 3 co-sponsors

Minnesota bill lowers concealed carry permit eligibility age from 21 to 18, expanding firearms access to legal adults.

Introduction and first reading, referred to Public Safety Finance and Policy
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Bill Summary · HF 416

Legislative bill overview

HF 416 would lower the minimum age requirement to apply for a permit to carry a concealed pistol from 21 years old to 18 years old in Minnesota. This change would align Minnesota's concealed carry permit age with the federal age for purchasing handguns and would make 18-year-olds eligible to obtain permits through the standard application process.

Why is this important

Age requirements for firearm permits directly affect who can legally carry concealed weapons in public spaces, influencing public safety considerations and Second Amendment access. This represents a notable policy shift that would expand eligibility to a younger demographic, with implications for law enforcement, courts, and community safety discussions.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety concerns: Opponents may argue that 18-year-olds have less developed judgment and life experience, citing brain development research and higher rates of impulsivity in that age group
  • Consistency with other regulations: Questions about why 18-year-olds can carry concealed weapons but cannot legally purchase alcohol until 21, or why this age differs from other states' standards
  • Training and background check adequacy: Debate over whether existing permit application processes sufficiently screen for safety risks among younger applicants, including mental health assessments

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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