On June 2, 2023, the U.S. Supreme Court made a significant decision by declining to hear challenges against state-level restrictions on assault-style rifles and large-capacity ammunition magazines. This decision effectively allows existing bans in states like Maryland and Rhode Island to remain in place, marking a critical moment in the ongoing debate over gun rights in America.
The Supreme Court rejected two appeals related to bans on powerful semiautomatic rifles, including the infamous AR-15, and restrictions on ammunition-feeding devices that hold more than ten rounds. Lower courts had previously upheld these bans, dismissing arguments that they violate the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. Notably, conservative Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Neil Gorsuch dissented from the decision to reject these appeals.
Justice Brett Kavanaugh expressed some sympathy towards the challengers' arguments, suggesting that the court may address the AR-15 issue in the near future. Kavanaugh highlighted that these firearms are commonly used by law-abiding citizens, which could warrant protection under the Second Amendment.
The Supreme Court's decision comes at a time when the nation is divided over how to tackle firearms violence, which has been exacerbated by numerous mass shootings. Despite having a 6-3 conservative majority, the court has generally leaned towards an expansive interpretation of the Second Amendment. The cases dismissed on June 2 presented an opportunity for the justices to further define the scope of gun rights in America.
The Maryland law, enacted in 2013, prohibits military-style assault weapons, such as the AR-15 and AK-47, following the tragic 2012 mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, where 20 children and six adults lost their lives. The law imposes penalties of up to three years in prison for violations. A Maryland resident and several gun rights organizations, including the Firearms Policy Coalition, challenged this law, but the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld it, ruling that such weapons are designed for combat and not suitable for self-defense.
The Rhode Island law, passed in 2022, restricts large-capacity magazines and is viewed as a reasonable measure aimed at enhancing public safety. Supporters argue that limiting magazine capacity can provide critical moments during mass shootings for individuals to escape or take defensive actions. This law was also upheld by the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals against a lawsuit from four gun owners and a registered firearms dealer.
Gun safety advocates welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to allow Maryland and Rhode Island's laws to stand. According to David Pucino, legal director at the Giffords Law Center, these laws are essential measures that help protect families and reduce gun violence. The Supreme Court's reluctance to engage with these cases underscores the ongoing tension between gun rights and public safety in America.
Historically, the Supreme Court has expanded gun rights in landmark rulings from 2008 and 2010, and a 2022 case that made it more challenging to defend gun restrictions under the Second Amendment. Recent decisions also include upholding regulations on ghost guns and striking down a federal ban on bump stocks, which allow semiautomatic weapons to fire rapidly. As challenges to gun restrictions continue, it remains to be seen how the Supreme Court will further interpret the Second Amendment in future cases.
