Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico announced a slate of gun‑safety measures during a recent Unity Over Division podcast appearance. He urged mandatory safe‑storage laws, universal background checks for private sales, and an increased minimum age for buying AR‑15‑style rifles,while insisting his stance respects the Second Amendment.

Talarico's Call for Mandatory Safe‑Storage Laws

According to the campaign website, Talarico wants legislation that requires gun owners to store firearms securely when not in use, a move he describes as "common sense" for protecting families. He argues that safe‑storage rules are comparable to existing regulations that safeguard other public goods, such as child‑proof medication caps.

Proposal to Raise AR‑15 Purchase Age to 21

In the same interview, Talarico said he would push to lift the minimum age for purchasing AR‑15‑style semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21, aligning the age limit with that for handguns in many states.. He framed the change as a preventative step, noting that younger buyers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidental shootings.

Critics Warn Universal Background Checks Threaten Private Sales

Critics, citing the long‑standing tradition of private gun transactions dating back to 1791, contend that universal background checks would effectively criminalize private sales. As reported by the Unity Over Division podcast, opponents argue the checks would not stop determined attackers and could infringe on constitutional rights.

Comparing Gun Permits to First‑Amendment Assembly Permits

Talarico drew a parallel between requiring permits for First‑Amendment assemblies and imposing gun‑safety regulations, saying he does not "pick and choose" among the Bill of Rights. He emphasized that just as permits help manage large public gatherings, gun permits could help ensure responsible ownership.

Will Texas Lawmakers Adopt Talarico’s Age Proposal?

The open question remains whether Texas legislators, who control state gun policy, will entertain a federal push to raise the AR‑15 purchase age. No state officials have responded yet, and the debate may hinge on upcoming midterm elections.