Federal Court Strikes Down New Jersey’s Gun Ban

A federal appeals court has overturned New Jersey’s bans on semiautomatic rifles and magazines holding over ten rounds. This outcome prompted celebration from the National Rifle Association (NRA), which labeled the ruling a ‘historic victory’ following litigation since 2018.

The Philadelphia-based 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that New Jersey’s restrictions on assault firearms and large-capacity magazines infringe upon the Second Amendment. The court determined that the state’s ‘assault-firearm’ ban is unconstitutional when applied to the total class of semiautomatic rifles, not solely the AR-15.

New Jersey’s limitations on semiautomatic rifles and magazines holding over ten rounds were also annulled. The NRA expressed enthusiasm, calling the decision a significant win for gun owners and the Second Amendment.

This is an NRA case that we’ve been litigating since 2018, so it’s a monumental win,” stated Justin Davis, managing director of public affairs for the NRA.

According to the NRA, the ruling supports law-abiding Americans in retaining commonly-owned rifles and standard-capacity magazines, crucial rights enshrined in the Second Amendment.

U.S. Circuit Judge Arianna Freeman, writing for the majority, highlighted the Supreme Court’s requirements for modern firearm restrictions to be consistent with historical regulatory traditions. New Jersey’s failure to align with this framework undercut its defense.

The law in question originated in 1990 after a California school shooting. The governor at that time described firearms covered by the law as capable of causing mass destruction.

Nevertheless, several judges dissented. They argued the banned weapons are unusually hazardous military-style arms that states have historically regulated. The dissenting opinions mentioned contradictions with prior federal court approvals of similar restrictions.

Jasmine Baehr is a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital, focusing on politics, military, legal debates, life and family policy, and cultural topics.