Maryland gun ban

A federal judge in Maryland, Chief U.S. District Judge George L. Russell III, has ruled that several provisions of the state's Gun Safety Act of 2023 are unconstitutional. Specifically, he struck down restrictions preventing licensed gun owners from carrying firearms in bars, within 1,000 feet of public demonstrations, and in private buildings without the owner's consent. These rulings come as part of ongoing legal challenges following the Supreme Court's Bruen decision, which altered the legal landscape for gun rights. Although Russell upheld many other restrictions, including bans at schools and healthcare facilities, this decision marks a significant win for gun rights advocates. The ruling consolidates cases filed by various plaintiffs, including the Second Amendment Foundation and Maryland Shall Issue, who argue that the state's regulations violate the Second Amendment. The Maryland Attorney General's office has not yet commented on the ruling, but appeals by gun rights groups are likely as they seek to challenge the upheld provisions.