On October 24, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit upheld much of New York’s gun control laws, aiming to strengthen regulations on carrying firearms, particularly in public places. This ruling allows the state to prohibit weapons in sensitive locations such as schools, parks, theaters, bars, and Times Square, reflecting growing concerns over gun violence.

Located in Manhattan, the appellate court also supported the requirement that officials evaluate gun permit applicants’ “good moral character,” effectively barring individuals deemed dangerous from carrying firearms in public. However, the three-judge panel struck down parts of the 2022 legislation, including the ban on carrying guns in privately-owned places that are generally open to the public, like gas stations and grocery stores.

A similar decision was made by the court last December, but after the Supreme Court clarified constitutional protections for gun owners in a separate case, the Second Circuit re-evaluated the matter. New York Attorney General Letitia James stated, “This decision is another victory in our efforts to protect all New Yorkers from gun violence. Common-sense gun safety legislation helps keep New Yorkers safe.”

The previous ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen expanded public rights to carry firearms; however, in June, the Supreme Court imposed a federal ban on gun possession for individuals under domestic violence restraining orders, which limited the Bruen decision’s impact.

Subsequently, the Supreme Court directed the Manhattan appellate court to reassess New York’s 2022 law in light of the “U.S. v. Rahimi” case findings. The appellate court noted that the Supreme Court’s analysis in Rahimi “supports our previous conclusion,” allowing continued regulation of firearm carry.

Erich Pratt, Vice President of Gun Owners of America, expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, labeling it “extremely frustrating.” He emphasized that efforts against anti-gun legislation in the state will persist until New Yorkers can carry weapons for self-defense without infringement.