A federal appeals court ruled on July 18, 2026, that New Jersey's ban on semiautomatic rifles and magazines that hold more than 10 rounds is unconstitutional. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, based in Philadelphia, stated that these restrictions violate the Second Amendment. The ruling expanded upon a previous lower court decision, declaring the state's assault-firearm ban unconstitutional for all semiautomatic rifles, not just the AR-15. The court found that New Jersey did not demonstrate that its restrictions align with historical firearm regulations in the United States. The ruling was met with support from the National Rifle Association (NRA), which has been involved in the case since 2018, calling it a significant victory for gun owners. Some judges dissented, arguing that the firearms in question are dangerous and that states have the authority to regulate them. This decision contrasts with other federal appeals courts that have upheld similar state restrictions.
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Federal Appeals Court Rules New Jersey's AR-15 Ban Unconstitutional
On July 18, 2026, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that New Jersey's ban on semiautomatic rifles and high-capacity magazines is unconstitutional, citing violations of the Second Amendment. The ruling has been celebrated by the National Rifle Association, while dissenting judges expressed concerns over the implications of the decision.
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- ✕ loaded language: 'disgraceful'
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Major appeals court declares New Jersey AR-15 ban unconstitutional in landmark Second Amendment ruling
Federal Appeals Court Rules New Jersey's AR-15 Ban Unconstitutional