A federal judge has struck down New Jersey’s ban on AR-15 rifles, deeming it unconstitutional under the Second Amendment. District Court Judge Peter Sheridan ruled that the state’s ban on the popular rifles is incompatible with recent Supreme Court precedents, including the landmark decision in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen.
However, Judge Sheridan upheld the state’s ban on large capacity magazines (LCMs) capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition, finding it constitutional under the same precedents.
The ruling comes in a case that was remanded for rehearing by the Supreme Court in 2022. Judge Sheridan, a George W. Bush appointee, expressed his distaste for the Supreme Court’s Second Amendment jurisprudence but stated he was bound to follow the precedents.
The decision could have implications for other states with similar “assault weapons” bans, as court cases against them move forward. Judge Sheridan’s ruling is stayed for 30 days to allow the state to appeal.