A federal appeals court has ruled that New Jersey’s ban on so-called assault firearms and magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds violates the Second Amendment, making it the first federal appeals court in the nation to strike down a state’s assault weapons ban. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals also invalidated the state’s restriction on large-capacity magazines.
The decision comes as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to consider similar cases involving assault weapons bans in other states. New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport criticized the ruling as “legally incorrect” and said the state is evaluating its legal options.
Governor Mikie Sherrill also condemned the decision, calling it “dangerous” and warning it would make New Jersey communities less safe.
“Today’s decision is dangerous, wrong, and make no mistake, it will make New Jersey communities less safe. Weapons of war do not belong on the streets of New Jersey. Our commonsense gun safety laws have saved lives and protected communities, and we will not back down from extreme, right-wing attempts to weaken the laws of New Jersey.”
The ruling is expected to be appealed, and the issue could ultimately be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court.
