Fact Check: "18 to 20-year-olds can buy guns through private sales in Iowa."
What We Know
In Iowa, the legal landscape surrounding firearm purchases has changed significantly. Effective July 1, 2021, individuals aged 18 to 20 can indeed acquire firearms through private sales without needing a permit. This is confirmed by the Iowa Department of Public Safety, which states that after this date, private sellers are not required to see a permit when selling a firearm to another private individual (source-1).
However, it is important to note that while they can purchase firearms privately, federal law still prohibits individuals under 21 from purchasing handguns from licensed dealers (source-4). Therefore, while 18 to 20-year-olds can buy guns through private sales, they cannot buy handguns from licensed dealers until they reach the age of 21.
Analysis
The claim that "18 to 20-year-olds can buy guns through private sales in Iowa" is supported by the recent changes in Iowa law. The law allows for private sales without the need for a permit, which means that individuals in this age group can legally acquire firearms from private sellers, such as family members or friends (source-2).
However, the context is crucial. The ability to purchase firearms privately does not extend to licensed dealers, where the federal law still applies, requiring buyers to be at least 21 for handguns. This distinction is important as it highlights the limitations of the claim.
The sources used in this analysis are credible, coming from official state resources and reputable news outlets. The Iowa Department of Public Safety is a reliable source for information on state laws, while KCRG, a local news station, provides context on how these laws affect firearm sales (source-4).
Conclusion
The claim that "18 to 20-year-olds can buy guns through private sales in Iowa" is Partially True. While it is accurate that individuals in this age group can purchase firearms through private sales without a permit, they are still prohibited from buying handguns from licensed dealers until they turn 21. This nuance is essential to understanding the full scope of the claim.
