A federal appeals court has largely overturned a lower court's decision, allowing New Jersey's restrictive handgun carry law to be enforced in many designated "sensitive places." This ruling marks a victory for Gov. Phil Murphy and his administration, while representing a setback for Second Amendment advocates.
The Third Circuit Court of Appeals voted 2-1 to reinstate the ban on carrying firearms in specific locations, including areas near public gatherings, zoos, bars, restaurants, and certain entertainment venues. This reverses parts of a district court injunction that had declared portions of the law unconstitutional.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy celebrates the appeals court decision upholding key components of the state's restrictive gun law. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
While some aspects of the law remain blocked—such as prohibitions on carrying guns in vehicles, on movie sets, and a blanket ban on firearms on private property without explicit signage—the core restrictions on carrying in designated "sensitive places" are now in effect. Property owners retain the right to prohibit firearms on their premises, and the requirement for firearm carriers to have insurance is also still blocked.
The reinstated law affects where individuals can legally carry firearms in New Jersey. (Kyle Grillot/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin praised the decision, emphasizing the state's commitment to public safety and its continued legal defense of the law. Gov. Murphy also expressed satisfaction with the ruling, highlighting its potential to reduce gun violence and maintain New Jersey's comparatively low rates of such incidents.
The law was enacted in response to a Supreme Court decision impacting concealed carry regulations. (Kyle Grillot/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
This 2022 law was a direct response to a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated a New York law requiring individuals to demonstrate "proper cause" to obtain a carry license. This decision had implications for states with similar laws, including New Jersey.
The appeals court decision represents a significant development in the ongoing legal debate surrounding Second Amendment rights and gun control measures.
