In a significant move against gun violence, major retailers Kroger and L.L. Bean have implemented stricter policies regarding firearm sales. Following the tragic mass shooting at a Florida high school on Valentine’s Day, which resulted in the deaths of 17 individuals, both companies have decided to prohibit the sale of firearms and ammunition to anyone under the age of 21.
Kroger’s Policy Changes
Kroger, recognized as the largest grocery chain in the United States, made this announcement regarding its Fred Meyer stores, which are located in four states and sell firearms. Notably, these stores do not carry food products alongside their firearms, ensuring that assault rifles like the AR-15 are not displayed next to groceries. In a formal statement, Kroger emphasized the need for responsible action among firearm retailers, stating, “In response to the tragic events in Parkland and elsewhere, we’ve taken a hard look at our policies and procedures for firearm sales.”
While federal law prohibits the sale of handguns to individuals under 21, it permits the sale of rifles, including AR-15s, to those as young as 18. Kroger’s decision to raise the purchasing age for all firearms and ammunition to 21 aligns with similar actions taken by other retailers, including Walmart and Dick’s Sporting Goods. The latter recently declared it would discontinue the sale of assault-style weapons entirely, having previously stopped selling such items in 2015.
L.L. Bean Responds to Customer Feedback
L.L. Bean’s policy shift came swiftly after a customer tweeted their request for the store to cease selling firearms to those under 21. The conversation surrounding gun reform has intensified since the Parkland shooting, with survivors and advocates urging lawmakers to raise the legal purchase age for firearms. The shooter, identified as 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz, legally acquired multiple firearms before the tragedy.
The Legislative Landscape
Despite these calls for reform, legislative bodies have largely avoided enacting substantive gun control measures. For instance, Florida lawmakers have approved a $67 million bill aimed at arming and training teachers, while Congress has remained inactive on federal gun control legislation. In the absence of legislative action, corporations have stepped in to address the issue, with major companies cutting ties with the National Rifle Association (NRA) in the aftermath of the incident.
As President Trump engaged with NRA representatives, the corporate response to gun violence has sparked a movement, creating new barriers for young individuals seeking legal access to firearms. The efforts of companies like Kroger and Dick’s Sporting Goods are commendable, as they take steps that lawmakers have yet to pursue to enhance child safety.
Further Reading
For more insights into related topics, check out this post on intrauterine insemination, which is an excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re interested in at-home fertility solutions, consider visiting Make a Mom for authoritative information.
Conclusion
In summary, Kroger and L.L. Bean have joined a growing list of retailers taking proactive measures against gun violence by restricting gun sales to individuals under 21, responding to the increasing demand for responsible firearm regulations in the wake of tragic shootings.