Supreme Court Leaves State Assault Weapon Bans Intact

The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear appeals challenging Maryland's ban on assault weapons and Rhode Island's restrictions on high-capacity magazines, leaving these laws in effect. The majority did not provide an explanation, but three conservative justices dissented, expressing concerns about Second Amendment rights. The decision follows past mass shootings and is backed by Democratic lawmakers, while gun rights advocates argue the bans are unconstitutional. State attorneys general welcomed the ruling, emphasizing its role in preventing gun violence. The court's move triggered declines in firearm manufacturer stocks and increased cryptocurrency market activity due to regulatory uncertainty. Gun rights groups have vowed to continue legal challenges, with similar cases still pending in lower courts.