A 20-year-old Portland, Oregon man, Tyler Watson, is suing a Dick’s Sporting Goods and Walmart for discrimination after the mega-chains refused to sell him a .22 caliber Ruger rifle. Dick’s Sporting Goods and Walmart implemented a new rule on February 28, prohibiting anyone under the age of 21 to purchase guns. Previously, by Oregon law, individuals 18 and over were eligible to buy guns.
Watson, who is seeking an undisclosed amount for punitive damages, is also requesting that judges force Dick’s and Walmart “to stop unlawfully discriminating against 18, 19, and 20-year-old customers at all Oregon locations." In response,
The rule was initiated after the tragic February 14 high-school massacre in Parkland, Florida, that left 17 dead and many more injured. The 19-year-old shooter had used a semi-automatic, assault-style rifle that he had purchased legally.
The man’s case against the retailers was filed regarding an incident that occurred on February 24- the first time he attempted to purchase a rifle. Reportedly, Watson tried again at a Walmart location on March 3. This is the first report of any lawsuits resulting from the recently implemented age-21-and-over policy.
A spokesman for Walmart, Randy Holgrove, has said, "We stand behind our decision and plan to defend it," he said. "While we haven't seen the complaint, we will respond as appropriate with the court."
Source: nbcnews.com
