WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday upheld a federal gun control law that is intended to protect victims of domestic violence.
In their first Second Amendment case since they expanded gun rights in 2022, the justices ruled 8-1 in favor of a 1994 ban on firearms for people under restraining orders to stay away from their spouses or partners. The justices reversed a ruling from the federal appeals court in New Orleans that had struck down the law.
Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the court, emphasized the law’s “common sense” approach. It applies following a judge’s determination of a credible threat of physical violence.
Justice Clarence Thomas, the author of the 2022 Bruen ruling in a New York case, dissented.
Last week, the court overturned a Trump-era ban on bump stocks, rapid-fire gun accessories. They ruled the Justice Department exceeded its authority in imposing the ban.
Friday’s case stemmed directly from the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision in June 2022, involving Zackey Rahimi. Rahimi was accused of hitting his girlfriend during an argument and later threatening to shoot her.
By upholding this law, the Court reaffirms its commitment to interpreting constitutional rights in a manner that prioritizes public safety, particularly for those vulnerable to domestic violence. As legal interpretations evolve, the implications of this decision will continue to reverberate across legislative frameworks and societal attitudes towards firearms regulation.
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