The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that New Jersey's assault-weapons and large-capacity magazine bans are unconstitutional.
The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Friday that New Jersey's restrictions on assault firearms and magazines holding more than 10 rounds are unconstitutional. This marks the first time a federal appeals court has struck down a state's assault weapons ban, affirming that such restrictions can violate the Second Amendment. New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport criticized the decision, describing it as "legally incorrect" and "unfortunate." She argued that the state acted reasonably by restricting these weapons to combat the modern epidemic of mass shootings. However, the ruling aligns with a conservative judicial trend, as the U.S. Supreme Court is currently reviewing similar bans in other states. John Commerford, executive director of the National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action, called the ruling a "historic victory" for law-abiding Americans. He noted that the right to keep and bear arms is a fundamental freedom that should not be infringed by politicians seeking more control. The state is currently considering its legal options following the decision.