In a recent ruling, U.S. District Judge Peter Sheridan stated that New Jersey's ban on the AR-15 rifle is unconstitutional, but the state's cap on magazines over 10 rounds is within constitutional bounds. The decision was based on the Supreme Court's 2022 Bruen decision, which expanded gun rights, leading the judge to uphold the magazine restriction while striking down the ban on the AR-15.
The ruling has sparked reactions from both 2nd Amendment advocates and the state attorney general, with both planning appeals. Judge Sheridan emphasized the need for governmental action to address mass shooting tragedies and suggested that Congress and the president could play a role in curbing gun-related violence nationwide.
The decision has implications beyond New Jersey, as nine other states and the District of Columbia have similar laws. The debate over assault weapons bans has been ongoing, with gun rights groups challenging laws in various states and citing the Bruen decision in their arguments.
New Jersey, known for its strict gun laws, has been a focal point for gun control measures under Democratic Governor Phil Murphy. The large capacity magazine ban, which was at the center of the recent ruling, was signed into law in 2018. Additionally, Governor Murphy has signed other gun control measures, including allowing the attorney general to pursue gun makers in court using the state's public nuisance law.
Overall, the ruling reflects the ongoing debate over gun control and individual rights, with legal challenges likely to continue as different parties push for their respective positions. The decision highlights the complex and contentious nature of gun laws in the United States, with both sides advocating for their interpretation of the Constitution and public safety.