The Supreme Court’s denial of certiorari in the case challenging New York’s Concealed Carry Improvement Act (CCIA) leaves in place lower court injunctions blocking the law’s restrictions on carrying firearms in houses of worship. This is a victory for plaintiffs like Rev. Dr. Jimmie Hardaway Jr., who argued the ban infringed on Second Amendment rights and jeopardized congregational safety. While the broader challenge to the CCIA continues, the ruling allows armed congregants to continue carrying firearms in churches. Governor Hochul supports the state’s gun laws, while Second Amendment advocates vow to continue their legal fight.
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In a 7-2 decision, the Supreme Court upheld the Biden administration’s regulation of ghost gun kits under the Gun Control Act. Justice Gorsuch’s majority opinion affirmed the ATF’s authority to regulate these kits as firearms, clarifying that the ruling does not encompass all weapon parts requiring significant assembly. Justices Thomas and Alito dissented, criticizing the regulation as government overreach. The ruling requires manufacturers and sellers to obtain licenses, serialize products, conduct background checks, and maintain records, impacting ghost gun availability.
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The Trump administration removed former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s advisory on gun violence from the Department of Health and Human Services website, citing an executive order protecting Second Amendment rights. This action eliminated data on firearm violence’s impact, including suicide rates and child deaths, provoking criticism from researchers who view gun violence as a public health issue requiring comprehensive solutions beyond law enforcement. The removal is part of a broader trend of deleting health information from federal websites, potentially hindering ongoing research and progress on gun violence prevention. The White House maintains that addressing violence is a law enforcement matter.
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Illinois’ new “Karina’s Law” mandates firearm removal from individuals subject to domestic violence orders of protection, significantly enhancing victim safety. The law, effective May 11th, allows for expedited law enforcement seizure of weapons and empowers petitioners to request immediate search warrants for alleged abusers’ homes. Inspired by the tragic murder of Karina Gonzalez and her daughter, the legislation prioritizes victim protection by addressing the critical link between firearms and domestic violence fatalities. The law is a direct result of the advocacy efforts of Manny Alvarez, Karina’s son, who survived the attack.
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Terry Sutherland, a blind man, obtained an Indiana handgun license to highlight flaws in the state’s gun laws. His successful application, despite his blindness, underscores the lack of competency testing for firearm permits. Sutherland advocates for mandatory competency tests at gun ranges, mirroring practices in other states, believing this is a minimum safety measure. Conversely, Second Amendment advocate Guy Relford opposes such restrictions, arguing for personal responsibility over government regulation. Sutherland’s efforts to prompt legislative discussion on common-sense gun safety measures have, so far, been met with silence from state representatives.
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A federal appeals court recently struck down a federal ban on handgun sales to 18-to-20-year-olds, sparking significant debate and raising concerns. The court’s decision hinges on its interpretation of the Second Amendment, arguing that the ban infringes upon the right to bear arms for this age group. This ruling potentially sets a precedent, likely leading to a Supreme Court appeal.
The age restriction’s removal raises questions about the maturity level needed to handle firearms responsibly. While 18 is the legal age of adulthood in the US, concerns remain about the potential for impulsive decisions and the increased risk of gun violence, particularly in schools and other public places.… Continue reading
On December 23rd, London police officers fatally shot 61-year-old Doug Harless while serving a search warrant at his Laurel County home. Neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots and witnessed officers entering Harless’s home before the shooting occurred. Police claim Harless pointed a weapon at them, prompting the use of lethal force, while neighbors and family dispute this account, portraying Harless as a peaceful individual and questioning the warrant’s target. The Kentucky State Police are now investigating the incident, reviewing evidence including neighbor surveillance footage.
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A federal judge in Illinois has ruled the state’s ban on assault weapons unconstitutional, citing the Second Amendment and the Supreme Court’s recent decision regarding gun restrictions. The judge, Stephen McGlynn, found that the ban does not align with historical precedents for firearm regulations and that assault weapons are commonly used for self-defense. While the judge issued a permanent injunction prohibiting enforcement of the ban, he stayed it for 30 days to allow the state to appeal. The ruling has sparked controversy, with gun rights advocates celebrating and gun control advocates expressing concern over the potential impact on public safety.
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As a proud Democrat and gun owner, I must say that Kamala Harris’s recent statement about protecting her home is nothing short of empowering. It’s not shocking to me that she, as a former District Attorney, has taken a stance on self-defense. Many law enforcement officers and legal professionals understand the importance of personal safety, especially given the risks associated with their professions.
The fact that this revelation may surprise some right-wingers only goes to show that gun ownership is not a partisan issue. Gun enthusiasts and responsible gun owners can come from any political background. It’s about protecting oneself and loved ones, a fundamental right that transcends political affiliations.… Continue reading
The recent statement made by a New Jersey Democrat, linking the attempted assassination to GOP rhetoric and the availability of assault rifles, has set off a firestorm on the right. It seems that nothing ignites the right wing like the truth, especially when it hits a little too close to home. The immediate response from those on the opposite end of the political spectrum is often to resort to threats and vitriol rather than engage in a meaningful dialogue or introspection.
The irony of the situation is palpable. While Republicans advocate for an unfettered Second Amendment so they can allegedly use guns to fight tyranny, the reality is that they are quick to lash out when the conversation turns towards their own potentially dangerous rhetoric.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood