DOJ Tells the Fifth Circuit It Won’t Enforce the Under-21 Handgun Restriction

The Justice Department has put its position in a court filing. It says it will not enforce the challenged federal handgun-sales restrictions against anyone, anywhere.

An October 5 brief to the Fifth Circuit relies on the Office of Legal Counsel’s conclusion that the restrictions violate the Second Amendment. The provisions concern licensed dealers’ handgun sales to adults under 21. DOJ argues the new position removes the live dispute and leaves no need to expand the plaintiffs’ permanent injunction.

The difference between enforcement policy and durable court relief is the remaining fight. The brief describes an existing injunction protecting plaintiffs and people who were members of the plaintiff organizations when judgment was entered, with enforcement barred only within the Fifth Circuit’s jurisdiction. The plaintiffs sought broader coverage, including future members.

The filing is the government’s argument, not a new appellate ruling. The brief addresses the challenged federal restrictions on licensed dealers’ handgun sales to adults under 21. Watch what the court does with the mootness and remedy questions. Sign up for WTF News for the next verified development.