A federal judge in Maryland has ruled that certain provisions of the state’s gun control legislation should be limited, pending further review of their legality. The provisions in question ban firearm possession in specific private and public areas, including businesses where alcohol is sold, private property without owner consent, and public gatherings.
Judge George Russell III sided with gun rights supporters and halted these provisions from going into effect, citing the Supreme Court’s decision last summer to restrict New York gun control legislation. The judge argued that Maryland did not have a sufficient historical basis to limit firearm possession in these circumstances.
However, the judge denied the plaintiffs’ request to halt other sections of the law, such as firearm bans in museums, parks, healthcare facilities, schools, and government buildings. These locations are considered “sensitive places” and can be regulated, according to the New York ruling.
The Supreme Court’s decision in the New York case had a significant impact on gun control legislation nationwide. In Maryland, it effectively weakened the state’s restrictions on who can purchase or own firearms, resulting in a notable increase in the number of people receiving gun permits.
The National Rifle Association (NRA), along with other firearms advocates, brought the lawsuit shortly after the law was signed. While the NRA celebrated the judge’s decision as a partial win, they expressed intentions to continue challenging other “sensitive places” outlined in the law.
Source: The Hill