New Jersey’s AR-15 Ban Struck Down as Unconstitutional, but Magazine Ban Stands

On Tuesday, a federal judge overturned New Jersey’s ban on AR-15 rifles. The ban on magazines with more than 10 cartridges remains in place. District Judge Peter Sheridan issued the decision.

A federal judge ruled on Tuesday that New Jersey’s ban on AR-15 rifles was unconstitutional. The state’s ban on magazines with more than 10 rounds was constitutionally valid.

Peter Sheridan, a U.S. District Judge in the Eastern District of New York, said that he was compelled to rule as he did because of Supreme Court decisions on firearms cases. This includes the 2022 Bruen Case that expanded gun rights.

Sheridan’s decision has left 2nd Amendment supporters as well as the State Attorney General planning appeals. The order was temporarily delayed by 30 days.

This decision is a victory for Second Amendment supporters, and possibly for the State of New Jersey. It acknowledges Bruen’s decision but ignores the issue of magazines’ capacity.

One plaintiff stated:

“Banning assault weapons is unconstitutional and immoral.” Brandon Combs, FPC’s president, stated that the FPC would fight until all bans are lifted in the United States. He is president of the Firearms Policy Coalition.

It’s an ongoing and constant battle. The New Jersey Attorney General’s response is a good example of this.

Matt Platkin of the New Jersey Attorney-General said in a press statement that this ruling undermines security.

He claimed that the AR-15 is designed for use in war, which can cause mass injuries. It’s also the weapon most commonly used in mass shootings. This phenomenon has devastated many communities across the United States.

This statement is not factually accurate. First of all, the “…designed-for-warfare” argument is a sham. The AR-15 sold on the commercial market was never used by any military anywhere. This statement is not accurate. The AR-15 is the same platform that is used by the M-16 rifle and the M-4 Carbine. These are both selective-fire weapons and not semi-autos.

The “weapons-of-choice” argument, as Mr. Platkin claims, is far from the truth. Most of these shootings are committed with handguns rather than rifles.

To advocate for public policies without understanding the details is not a good idea.

Both sides will appeal the decision. Second Amendment supporters are concerned about the magazine ban. This issue will be addressed. New Jersey will appeal the ruling on the AR-15. Second Amendment advocates can celebrate this mixed blessing, but prepare for the next round in the never-ending struggle.