In response to the tragic mass shooting at Parkland High School, where 17 lives were lost, major retailers are stepping up to address gun violence by raising the minimum age for gun purchases to 21. Kroger, the largest grocery chain in the United States, has joined this movement, announcing that it will no longer sell firearms or ammunition to anyone under 21 years of age. This decision affects 45 Fred Meyer stores across four states, which are unique in that they do not sell food alongside firearms.
Kroger stated, “In light of the heartbreaking events in Parkland and beyond, we’ve thoroughly evaluated our firearm sales policies. It’s clear that responsible retailers must take further action.” Currently, federal law prohibits the sale of handguns to individuals under 21, but permits 18-year-olds to buy rifles, including AR-15s. Kroger is now following in the footsteps of other retailers, such as Walmart, to impose stricter age regulations for gun purchases.
L.L. Bean also made headlines with its policy change, prompted by a customer’s tweet advocating for a similar ban on sales to individuals under 21. In the wake of the Parkland tragedy, voices of survivors and gun reform advocates have echoed a call for raising the legal gun purchase age to 21 years. The shooter, Nikolas Cruz, was just 19 and was able to acquire multiple firearms legally.
Despite this push for sensible reforms, lawmakers have largely avoided addressing the root issues of gun violence. Instead, Florida legislators have opted to allocate $67 million to train teachers as “armed school marshals,” while Congress has failed to enact any federal gun control measures following the shooting.
In this climate, it is corporations—not politicians—that are taking meaningful steps to curb gun violence. Since the Parkland shooting, over a dozen companies have severed ties with the National Rifle Association (NRA). In contrast, President Trump has publicly supported the NRA, emphasizing the divide between corporate accountability and legislative inaction.
While many may not have expected major retailers like Walmart and Dick’s Sporting Goods to lead the charge on this issue, their actions reflect a growing commitment to community safety that politicians have yet to embrace. As we continue to advocate for change, let’s also explore our other resources, like this article on home insemination kits, which offers valuable insights for families planning for the future. For those interested in pregnancy-related topics, this resource provides comprehensive information.
In summary, Kroger and L.L. Bean’s recent policy changes reflect a significant shift in how corporations are responding to gun violence, prioritizing community safety over profit. As the movement for sensible gun reform gains momentum, it highlights the critical role that both businesses and individuals can play in advocating for change.