Third Circuit Upholds Most New Jersey Gun Restrictions, Strikes Some Provisions

The Third Circuit Court of Appeals recently upheld most provisions of New Jersey's 2022 strict gun law that bans firearm carry in numerous 'sensitive places' like parks, hospitals, libraries, zoos, and casinos, despite challenges citing the Supreme Court's Bruen decision that expanded gun rights. While the court struck down certain aspects such as mandatory liability insurance, increased fees, locked storage in vehicles, and gun-free zones in private spaces open to the public, the majority ruling preserved the core restrictions, marking a setback for gun rights advocates. The court adopted a somewhat flexible interpretation of Bruen, recognizing places like libraries and museums as historically sensitive areas due to their educational roles. This decision aligns with similar rulings upholding sensitive-place laws in other states including California, Hawaii, and New York. Gun rights groups such as the Firearms Policy Coalition expressed disappointment, arguing these restrictions remain unconstitutional and pledged to continue their legal challenges. The ruling reflects a partisan split in the appellate panel and leaves open the possibility of Supreme Court review given the contentious nature of Second Amendment interpretations post-Bruen.